Ameobi adds to striking crisis
Monday, December 22, 2003
Article summary
Newcastle United FC striker Shola Ameobi has been ruled out for a month after fracturing a cheekbone.
Article body
'Bad news'
The English Under-21 international suffered the injury during Saturday's 0-0 Premiership draw at Charlton Athletic FC. "Shola's injury is bad news for us," said manager Sir Bobby Robson. "These things happen but it does look a bit gloomy for him." Ameobi, who is expected to miss six matches, may play in a face mask to quicken his recovery.
Face mask
Newcastle are short of striking options, with Craig Bellamy recovering from knee surgery and DR Congo captain Lomana LuaLua set to travel to next month's African Cup of Nations. However Ameobi is expected to be fit in time for Newcastle's UEFA Cup third-round tie against Vålerenga IF of Norway in late February.
