FABIAN SCHAR was rushed to hospital after being stretchered off with his leg in a brace during Newcastle’s 4-3 victory over Leeds.
The veteran defender, 34, appeared to twist his knee during an accidental tangle with Dominic Calvert-Lewin in the 70th minute.
Physios rushed on to treat the Swiss star, who was in clear distress.
Following around five minutes of treatment, Schar was taken off on a stretcher to applause from the Toon faithful.
Boss Eddie Howe replaced Schar with Jacob Ramsey, while also bringing Yoane Wissa on for Nick Woltemade.
Updating fans on the centre-back’s condition after the game, Howe said: “Yeah, doesn’t look good for Fab. He’s in hospital, I believe, at the moment. He’s got an ankle problem.
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“So, yeah, doesn’t look good for him. We hope it’s not as serious as it looks. We send him our love. He’s such an important player.
“He’s been incredible for us since we’ve come to the football club. He’s been almost an ever-present.
“He’s always put his body on the line for the team, and it looks like he’s picked up a bad injury, unfortunately.”
Schar is the latest Toon defender to be sidelined – with Emil Krafth, Dan Burn and Jamaal Lascelles also out.
On whether Schar’s injury could force him to dip into the transfer market, Howe added: “It’s a bit too early for me to sort of give an assessment on that, but we’ll take a view as the window unfolds.”
The match was level at 2-2 at the time of Schar’s unfortunate injury.
Brenden Aaronsen gave Daniel Farke’s side the lead just after the half hour, only for Harvey Barnes to quickly level.
Calvert-Lewin reclaimed the visitors’ lead from the penalty spot on the stroke of half-time, but Joelinton equalised on 54 minutes.
Shortly after played resumed following Schar’s withdrawal, Leeds again found themselves ahead.
Aaronsen brilliantly fired into the bottom corner for his second of the contest to stun the home side.
The American went from hero to zero in the 89th minute, however, handballing a cross to concede a penalty.
And Bruno Guimaraes stepped up to convert from 12 yards.
Both sides pushed for a winner during a frantic conclusion to the match.
And Barnes sensationally won it in the 102nd minute with a dramatic swivel and finish.