Massadio Haidara: Newcastle defender avoids serious injury

Newcastle United have confirmed defender Massadio Haidara has avoided serious injury following Callum McManaman's tackle in the 2-1 defeat by Wigan Athletic last weekend.

Scans showed the 20-year-old's left leg suffered bone bruising and soft tissue damage, but no significant bone or ligament injuries.

The club expects Haidara to return to the first team in early April.

He will continue to be assessed by the side's medical staff.

In a statement, the club said: "He has been very lucky that he has not suffered more serious injury and this positive diagnosis in no way lessens the club's views with regard to the severity of the tackle from which it resulted."

Haidara joined Newcastle from Nancy in January and has made five appearances, two as a substitute.