Anthony Elanga was stretchered off shortly before half-time after Jose Gaya’s horror tackle resulted in a red card.

Matthias Jaissle labelled Jose Gaya’s challenge on Anthony Elanga as “shocking” and is relieved the winger did not suffer a serious injury.

The Swede is understood to be fine after being stretchered off in Newcastle United’s pre-season win over Valencia. Elanga started brightly - as he did at the World Cup and against Bristol City - and wrongfully had a goal disallowed for offside.

As the game headed towards half-time, Gaya recklessly lunged in with a shin-high tackle on the winger. He was immediately given a red card, with Newcastle fearing the worst as Elanga left the pitch on a stretcher.

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On a positive note, the winger’s injury is not thought to be too serious. Elanga has pain in his shin but was up and walking during the interval. Jaissle - incensed on the touchline at the incident - introduced Jacob Murphy at the Mestalla Stadium for the remainder of the game.

Yoane Wissa 2.0

Gaya’s dismissal ultimately handed control to Newcastle in the second half. The Toon boss was proactive with his substitutions as Yoane Wissa proved to be the difference-maker.

Signed last summer for £55million, the 29-year-old endured an injury-ravaged debut campaign at St James' Park. But his second-half brace and all-round lively performance will give Toon fans plenty of optimism.

He combined with new signing Bazoumana Toure - who also came on at the break - for the late winner. Newcastle will not return to British soil ahead of a clash against Everton at Murrayfield on Wednesday.

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Matthias Jaissle on Anthony Elanga

On Elanga’s injry concern, Jaissle said: “I'm really happy that there are no serious injuries. Anthony, we're happy and it seems to be ok, actually. That was the most important thing. The only thing I can say for now is that it seems to be not bad, so we're impressed, and I hope soon that we can start next week again.

“It was a shocking challenge. Of course I was in fear, but now I'm more relaxed as the medical department is showing almost no signs of a serious injury. It was a really tough one, and I didn't expect it. Of course, fouls are also part of the game, but that was really harsh, so I'm just happy that it seems not to be a big deal.”

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