The Italian left the field in agony yesterday during Newcastle's 3-2 win over Gold Coast United at EnergyAustralia Stadium.

Newcastle's medical staff were all but certain of the diagnosis with the player looking at a minimum six months recovery time which could potentially end the 33 year old's career at his age.

That leaves a big question mark over his immediate future at club level, although the Jets had begun initial contract negotiations before yesterday's huge setback.

Coach Branko Culina admitted Vignaroli's injury had cast a cloud over a good day for the club.

"While it's terrific to win the game, it's very disappointing, because it looks like he's out for the whole year," Culina said. "It's a huge blow when you miss key players," he told the Newcastle Herald.

Newcastle's win continued their recent turnaround in form, climbing from the depths of the league up to fourth spot after three successive victories.