SEAN LONGSTAFF is unavailable for Newcastle United’s trip to Liverpool tomorrow after injuring his ankle in training.

Longstaff turned his ankle while attempting to block a cross during a routine training session, and will not be involved in the game at Anfield.

His absence will be a major blow to the Magpies, with Jonjo Shelvey or Ki Sung-yueng set to replace him alongside Isaac Hayden at the heart of midfield.

“Unfortunately, Sean Longstaff turned an ankle in training and won’t  be in contention for the weekend,” said Newcastle boss Steve Bruce. “We won’t quite know how serious it is for another couple of days, but it’s a blow for us.

“It’s one of them awful ones. He goes to stop a cross and gets his ankle caught. It’s one of those freak ones that unfortunately happen. You come off the pitch and we’re all disappointed. We’ve lost a player to a freak accident, but that’s what happens in football. Sometimes, you miss out.”

Bruce was able to report better news over Andy Carroll, with the striker due to meet a specialist in London today for an assessment on his ankle. If the consultant gives the green light, Carroll will step up his training with some full-contact sessions next week.

“Andy is away to see the specialist, touch wood he’s delighted with how it’s gone so far,” said Bruce. “For everybody to see him joining in, it was good for him and good for the group.

“We need some positive news for his specialist now. He’s going down to London this morning and we hope its good news. He’s close. I’ve always said it’s very difficult to put a timescale on something like Andy. He’s fit when he’s fit. He’s joined in and worked hard, and there’s a smile across his face because he’s comfortable, that’s very good.”