NEWPORT County AFC have suffered another major injury blow with the news that defender Andrew Hughes’ knee injury will keep him out for around nine months.

Hughes, who picked up the injury in Saturday’s 2-0 win over Stevenage, has been a virtual ever-present at the back alongside Darren Jones and Ismail Yakubu.

The 22-year-old has been a key part of the team that has lost just once in 17 League Two matches.

An official statement from the club on Twitter tonight reads: “County can confirm defender Andrew Hughes is out for the rest of the season following an injury picked up against Stevenage on Saturday.

“We wish Andrew a speedy recovery and a club statement will follow on Wednesday.”

Hughes also reacted on Twitter having earlier told his followers: “About to have a scan on knee...praying it's going to be good news.”

After the results Hughes added: “Hearing the doctor say I’ll be out for nine months is one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to hear.

“(I) need to stay strong and positive through the downs and the ups (that) will come.

“Everyone has a setback but it's how you react.

“I wish the lads all the very best for the rest of the season and that they continue the run of form and get the club promoted.”

Hughes’ teammate Aaron O’Connor, who suffered his own injury nightmare last season, added: “Heart goes out to my teammate and good friend @MrAndrewHughes. What doesn't kill us...”

Hughes joins fellow Exiles star Robbie Willmott in being ruled out for the remainder of the season.

The club also saw their appeal against O’Connor’s red card thrown out today, meaning the striker will miss the next three matches.