NEWPORT County defender Andy Sandell will be out until Christmas.

A key component for the Exiles at either left back or left wing back, Sandell missed Saturday's draw at Scunthorpe and has taken to Twitter to announce his lengthy absence after an apparent operation.

"Operation done and now time to stuff myself, I'll be back at Christmas," he Tweeted, after earlier complaining about being nil-by-mouth.

He also wrote: "Had a bone taken out of my foot and ruptured ligaments as well."

Sandell's injury is a further blow to manager Justin Edinburgh who will be without Byron Anthony until the New Year and who is also without midfielder Max Porter for an indeterminate period.

Striker Christian Jolley is also scheduled for an operation in the near future.

However, Aaron O'Connor is nearing a return.