Forgotten Frenchman Sylvain Marveaux will miss the start of the Premier League season with a hernia problem, it has been revealed.

Newcastle United midfielder Marveaux has made just 38 appearances in three-and-a-half seasons at St. James' Park, after falling down the pecking order under previous manager Alan Pardrew.

New Magpies' boss Steve McClaren said the 29-year-old is likely to miss the start of the Premier League season after having a minor procedure.

"He is in for a hernia operation if not he's had it already," McClaren said, speaking in Milwaukee during Newcastle's pre-season tour of the United States.

"It's four to six weeks I think."

Former Rennes star Marveaux spent last season on loan with French Ligue 1 side Guingamp.