Toon Star Could Have Played His Last Game This Season!

Last updated : 26 February 2008 By Footy Mad - Editor

The 31-year-old Republic of Ireland international aggravated the injury on Saturday, and he has already been ruled out of this weekend's crucial visit of former club Blackburn to St James' Park.

There are fears that another operation is required after a string of similar problems.

Given is expected to see a specialist this week and, should he need surgery, his season could be over.

That would come as a huge blow to both Given and his manager Kevin Keegan as the Magpies attempt to halt their slide down the table.

Given has been blighted by groin problems ever since the horrific collision with then West Ham striker Marlon Harewood which left him with a perforated bowel in September 2006.