NEWPORT County AFC braced for a big blow in their bid for the League Two play-offs while waiting for the extent of Shane McLoughlin’s calf injury.

The influential right-back went off in the opening exchanges of last week’s 3-0 loss at Milton Keynes Dons after pulling up and then having treatment on his left leg.

McLoughlin, who had played in 42 of County’s 44 games and was a League Two ever-present up until Tuesday’s win at Harrogate, has been diagnosed with a tendon problem and is waiting for the opinion of a specialist.

“The extent of the injury is that it’s a bad one but we are just waiting on the length [that he will be out],” said manager Graham Coughlan.

“I don’t see the news being good but we are waiting on the expert opinion, guidance and the timeframe. It’s not a good one so I am not expecting too much good news.

“It’s just trying to pinpoint the exact injury, rehab that is needed and timeline on it.”

South Wales Argus: INFLUENTIAL: Shane McLoughlin on the run for County against Manchester UnitedINFLUENTIAL: Shane McLoughlin on the run for County against Manchester United (Image: Huw Evans Agency)

Asked if it was a season-ending injury, with the last game of the regular season being at Bradford on April 27, Coughlan said: “I wouldn’t say that because I don’t know and it would be wrong of me to say that.

“I haven’t been given a timeframe yet and we are hoping he can be back in the next couple of weeks and that it’s minor one.

“But there is never anything minor here, it’s always major and every player that has been out for us this season it has been months rather than weeks.

“I am bracing myself for bad news and longevity with Shane’s injury, anything other than that will be a bonus.”

The 27-year-old Irishman, who has also slotted in at left-back and in midfield, has scored six goals this season and leads the Exiles for League Two assists with six.

McLoughlin’s misfortune presents an opportunity for Southampton loanee Lewis Payne, who made his 34th appearance of the campaign and 14th League Two start in Harrogate.

The 19-year-old and academy graduate Harrison Bright, who returned from a loan at Cymru Premier Barry Town United in January and came off the bench in midweek, are the main options for Coughlan.

Matt Baker has also shifted to right-back in games but is primarily a central defender or defensive midfielder.