Newcastle have withdrawn Papiss Cisse from the Senegal squad for their friendly against South Africa after he picked up a groin injury.
Toon keeping fingers crossed on striker for Tyne-Wear derby
Newcastle have withdrawn Papiss Cisse from the Senegal squad for Wednesday night's friendly against South Africa after the striker picked up a slight groin injury.
The 26-year-old left the pitch with the problem during Saturday's 2-2 Premier League draw with Wolves and the club have confirmed that, after being assessed by medical staff, he will play no part in the game.
A spokesman said: "Newcastle United can today confirm that Papiss Cisse has been withdrawn from the Senegal squad to face South Africa on Wednesday.
"The striker, signed in January from Freiburg, sustained a slight groin injury in Saturday's 2-2 draw against Wolves and was substituted midway through the second half of the match.
"Having been assessed by United's medical staff, Cisse will not take part in Senegal's friendly."
Derby
Manager Alan Pardew will keep his fingers crossed that his big-money January signing will recover in time to take his place in the Magpies team for Sunday's derby clash with Sunderland.
Cisse has made three appearances for the club after returning from the Africa Cup of Nations, and has scored in each of his two home games, a 2-1 win over Aston Villa in which his strike clinched the points, and Saturday's disappointing draw.
Pardew is hopeful that his partnership with compatriot Demba Ba, who has 16 goals to his name so far this season, will help Newcastle maintain their challenge for a top-six Premier League finish.
