Newcastle United striker Callum Wilson could be missing for the rest of the month.
The number 9 picked up a thigh strain against Southampton in the 2-2 draw and has been nursing the knock ever since.
Wilson was badly missed at Old Trafford during the 4-1 thumping and is also doubtful for the clash with Leeds United on Friday night.
In fact Wilson could miss both the Leeds game and the trip to Watford at the end of September.
It means his next involvement could be October 2 away to Wolverhampton Wanderers but Newcastle are refusing to put a date on his return.
Whether they decide to rest him until after the next international break remains to be seen.
Bruce said after the defeat at Old Trafford: "We aren't putting a time scale on it.
"But he could be touch and go for next week and the week after it."
Bruce has previously feared Wilson could be missing for at least three weeks with the club's decision not to sign another recognised and proven striker already haunting them after four matches.
Joelinton had one effort saved by David De Gea at Man United while Dwight Gayle didn't even get on the pitch.
