BREAKING: Isaac Hayden undergoes ankle operation in blow to Newcastle

The midfielder, named on the bench at Carrow Road on Tuesday night, has been troubled by a niggle problem in recent weeks.

And Hayden is having an operation today on his ankle which could sideline him for four weeks.

United manager Rafa Benitez said: "He needed an operation. It's not very serious."

Asked how long he could be out for, Benitez said: "It could be four weeks – or less."

Hayden – who joined Newcastle from Arsenal last summer – has been a regular for United this season.

Championship leaders Newcastle take on Aston Villa at St James's Park on Monday night.

More to follow