Souness plays down Dyer reports

Dyer's career statistics

Newcastle boss Graeme Souness has played down newspaper reports suggesting that midfielder Kieron Dyer will be out of action until Christmas.

The 26-year-old England star has been battling with a hamstring injury that has sidelined him since August.

"Nobody can put a time on it," the Scot told the club website.

"I don't know where this talk has come from. Christmas has not been mentioned by anyone at the club. All we are concerned with is getting Kieron fit."

However, Souness said the situation regarding Dyer's injury was not improving.

"He's got a problem with both his hamstrings and he's now feeling another part of his hamstring, higher up on his backside," added the Newcastle boss.

"He'll be very frustrated by the situation; he loves playing football - that's why he does it so well - and it will be hurting him at this time.

"He sees we've bought good players and wants to be on the pitch with them.

"I want him to get on the pitch because he's one of our door openers."