Newcastle's Harper out for 12 weeks

Newcastle goalkeeper Steve Harper has been ruled for "around 12 weeks" after undergoing shoulder surgery.

Harper sustained ligament damage after landing on his left shoulder following a challenge by Jermaine Beckford during Saturday's 1-0 win at Everton.

Newcastle described Wednesday's operation as "successful" but the prognosis means Harper, 35, is unlikely to figure again until mid-December.