NEWPORT centre Jason Jones-Hughes has suffered a major setback and his knee injury is likely to keep him out until next year.

He suffered the injury at Swansea in April and missed Newports cup final triumph before finally returning against Connacht in the Celtic League this month.

But he damaged the knee again and needs another scan and a further examination by a specialist. The signs dont look good, Newport coach Ian McIntosh saying: Jason may be out for quite a while. Hes distraught and its very sad. Hes really down about it.

Hes got to have another scan. He thought he was close to playing again, but maybe he went on a bit too long against Connacht.

"One of the tragedies of rugby is injuries.

A disappointed Jones-Hughes said: Its been five months and the first phase was rest, which hasnt worked too well.

I landed on the knee against Connacht, now Im counting the time to when I see the specialist, but it doesnt look like Ill be returning in the immediate future.

I was hoping it would be right before the start of this season. I had rehabilitation here and in Australia and Ive been working hard, now this.

Jones-Hughes has had a dreadful run with injuries since joining Newport two years ago after the furore about turning his back on his native Australia and coming to Wales, the land of his father.

His debut was delayed because of World Cup commitments with Wales, then he was out for four months with an ankle injury which put him out for the start of last season, and now hes down with a damaged knee.