NEWCASTLE UNITED will seek an update on Miguel Almiron’s wellbeing this weekend after the midfielder was forced to leave Paraguay’s World Cup qualifier with Peru on a medical cart.

Almiron started as Paraguay drew 2-2 in an ill-tempered game in Ascuncion, and suffered a blow in the first half when he was struck by a stray elbow from a Peruvian opponent.

He was able to continue despite that incident, but was forced to receive medical treatment on the turf in stoppage time at the end of the second half.

He was eventually helped onto a medical cart which transported him off the field, but at this stage it is unclear whether he has suffered a muscular injury or was just struggling with cramp. Steve Bruce will be desperately hoping it is the latter as he would not want to be without Almiron for next weekend’s home meeting with Manchester United.

The attacking midfielder is due to return to action against Venezuela on Tuesday, and Newcastle’s medical staff will request an update ahead of the game.

There was better injury news relating to Fabian Schar as the defender was able to play for the opening 76 minutes of Switzerland’s defeat to Croatia.

Schar injured his shoulder in last weekend’s win over Burnley, but has not suffered a recurrence of the serious issue that sidelined him for four months earlier this year.