The New Castel midfilder injured hamstring this Thursday in the Europa League against Maritimo Funchal.
“This is a hamstring problem that will prevent him from playing Sunday and most likely next week, then I do not know,” said coach Alan Pardew.
“I do not think it is a tear, according to the doctor, so it will not be long-term, but it is unavailable in the immediate future,” he added.
The other French midfielder Yohan Cabaye is also unavailable due to a groin injury.
Remains whether other midfielder can do the work.