Fabian Schar has revealed his devastation at finding himself ruled out - potentially until the end of the season.
Schar was carried off with a knee injury in the 3-2 win over Southampton.
The Switzerland international is now targeting the Euros for his return but looks unlikely to play a major part in the remainder of United’s season.
It could leave United with the prospect of one empty squad space although the option of adding midfielder Henri Saivet is still available to them.
There have also been calls to bring back Florian Lejeune from Alaves on loan but Steve Bruce has played that option down in recent days.
However, any changes to the squad require approval from the Premier League board after the final squad list for the remainder of the season was submitted on Friday.
United would need special dispensation from top-flight chiefs to bring in a replacement for Schar.
However, Schar posted on Twitter: “It’s difficult to accept.
“I felt really good on the pitch and the team did well the last few games. Now i will be out for a few months and its gonna be a hard time.
“But I will try everything to be back on the pitch as soon as possible. And my goal will be to be ready for the Euros.”
Schar's injury was confirmed in a club statement which read: "Newcastle United defender Fabian Schar is set to be out of action for several months after sustaining a knee injury during Saturday's 3-2 win against Southampton.
"The Switzerland international sustained a torn knee ligament in the 75th minute of the match and had to be stretchered from the pitch.
“He will undergo further assessment with a specialist consultant in the coming days before beginning his rehabilitation with the club's medical team. “Everyone at NUFC wishes Fabian a full and speedy recovery.”
