Newcastle defender Massadio Haidara feeling better after Callum McManaman's horror tackle

Newcastle full-back Massadio Haidara has spoken for the first time since Callum McManaman's horror tackle forced him off during his side's 2-1 defeat at Wigan on Sunday.

The 20-year-old, who joined the Toon from Nancy in January, was taken off on a stretcher after being caught by McManaman's wild knee-high challenge, which referee Mark Halsey failed to spot.

There were fears the Frenchman would face a lengthy spell on the sidelines, but he has hinted he could be back sooner than first thought.

He tweeted: "Praise to God. I'm getting better, I want to thank all of you for your messages of support, they really touched me."