ANTHONY GORDON will miss Newcastle United’s trip to Nottingham Forest on Friday night because of an ankle injury – and the January signing might not be ready to return by the end of the forthcoming international break.

Gordon suffered an ankle injury during last weekend’s defeat at Manchester City, and while it was originally hoped the problem was not too serious, it has proved worse than initially feared.

The midfielder was not part of the squad for this afternoon’s 2-1 win over Wolves, and has already been ruled out of Friday’s televised game at the City Ground.

He could return for the home game with Manchester United that follows the international break, although that is not yet guaranteed.

Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe said: “It was a strange one because after the game (at Man City) there was no sign of an injury. It’s one of those that got worse on the day of the game, it was from a tackle, and when he came it, it was swollen up.

“He had a scan and we were hoping we could get away with it and he would be alright, but unfortunately not. He’ll probably miss two games, and I’m not sure whether he’ll be back after the international break. We hope so, but that’s not 100 per cent certain.”

Howe made five changes for today’s victory, and was delighted with the way in which Miguel Almiron responded to being left out of the starting side.

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Having been dropped to the bench with Jacob Murphy returning to the starting XI, Almiron claimed the winner after being brought on as a 68th-minute substitute.

Howe said: “We were rotating our team and freshening it up. Miggy has played near enough every game. We felt it was right to give Jacob a chance, he’s done really well from the bench in recent weeks.

“Miggy responded as only he would because he’s got an incredible attitude. I’m so pleased he scored the winning goal. It’s a fitting reward for his season.”