Newcastle United defender Steven Taylor's season is over due to an Achilles injury suffered in defeat to Chelsea.

His worst fears were realised on Sunday when the club confirmed that Taylor would have an operation on Monday that will leave him facing a lengthy spell of rehabilitation.

A club spokesman said: "Steven sustained an Achilles injury yesterday at the end of our game with Chelsea.

"After medical assessment, he will be having surgery tomorrow and it is likely he will be out for the rest of the season."