Newcastle defender Danny Simpson will miss the start of the Premier League season as he continues to recover from a foot operation.
The right-back made 41 appearances for the Magpies last term after his move from Manchester United.
He played an important role in Newcastle's return to the top-flight after they took the Championship by storm following their relegation.
Manager Chris Hughton praised Simpson for playing through the pain barrier last season, but admits he will be out of action until the end of August.
He told the club's official website: "Danny had a minor operation at the end of the season and will miss the start of the season.
"We're hoping that he'll be fit by the end of August, but he'll probably miss the first three or four games.
