The V-Bomber is currently in Australia seeking fresh advice on a problem that has plagued him since the end of last season.

It had been thought that rest rather than surgery would do the trick but club and player have now sought a fresh view.

Kinnear told the Newcastle Chronicle: "Mark Viduka has had one scan on his injury, but he wanted a second opinion and so too did our medical people. That is why he has gone back to Australia.

“However, we know there is a chance Viduka may need surgery– and if this turns out to be the case we will be without his services for a minimum of six months. This is not good news."

Newcastle are keeping their fingers well and truly crossed though that the verdict is simply one of more rest rather than a need for the knife.

“We will know more when Viduka comes back in about six days’ time, and in the meantime all we can do is wait and hope," said Kinnear.

That would also be a huge blow for Pim Verbeek who would love to welcome Viduka back into the international set up.