Newcastle United defender Dan Burn will be out for up to six weeks after suffering a punctured lung and a broken rib during Sunday’s bruising Wear-Tyne derby defeat to Sunderland.
The England international was forced from the field just before half-time following a heavy collision with Sunderland right-back Nordi Mukiele, and is now facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
Burn was caught by Mukiele’s knee as the Sunderland defender slid in, earning a booking for the challenge. Although clearly in pain, Burn initially attempted to continue, but by the 42nd minute, it became evident he could not carry on, and he was withdrawn as a precaution.
Dan Burn of Newcastle United reacts after being fouled by Nordi Mukiele of Sunderland (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
The England star informed Newcastle’s medical team that he was struggling to breathe, prompting an immediate hospital visit for scans and further checks. According to The Daily Mail, subsequent tests revealed that he suffered a punctured lung alongside a fractured rib.
Newcastle will now be without their vice-captain for at least six weeks, ruling him out of the entire festive programme and much of January.
The expected recovery period could see Burn miss a total of ten matches, a devastating blow during one of the most demanding stretches of the season. While there remains hope that specialist treatment could accelerate his return, Newcastle are preparing for an extended absence.
