Chopra could be out for a month

FORMER Reds striker and current Young Player Of The Year Michael Chopra is facing Premiership heartbreak ahead of Newcastle United's opening day clash with Arsenal.

Chopra, who impressed on loan at Oakwell last season, was due to be part of the Magpies squad for the game at Highbury but picked up a serious knee injury playing for the Magpies reserves yesterday. The medial ligament problem could sideline the striker for a month and has robbed him of the chance to partner Alan Shearer against the Gunners.

The youngster said: "It's really disappointing, especially having worked so hard over the summer. I'd got myself in a position to challenge for a place at the weekend, with Shola suspended and Alan being looked at.

"I was thinking I may get a place on the bench on Sunday but that's not to be now."

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