ASTON VILLA star Tyrone Mings was carried off on a stretcher with his leg in a brace in worrying scenes at St James' Park.
The defender was involved in 50-50 challenge for the ball with Newcastle star Alexander Isak and appeared to fall awkwardly.
He had his head in his hands and was in clear distress as he exited the Premier League clash.
It appeared to be an ankle or knee injury.
Speaking on BBC Radio 5Live, former Chelsea and Everton star Pat Nevin said: "When a player goes down and doesn't move there's definitely damage there.
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"He has his hands on his face and it could be because he's hurt but also because this is the start of the season.
He is a huge character and huge personality. He is a big part of that Aston Villa - I was going to say team - but entire club."
New Villa signing Paul Torres replaced Mings at the heart of the defence.
The centre-half was clapped off the pitch by both sets of supporters in a huge blow to Villains boss Unai Emery in their Premier League opener.
Newcastle were 2-1 down at the time of the injury, thanks to goals from new boy Sandro Tonali and Isak.
Moussa Diaby, also making his debut, had brought Villa level at 1-1 before the hosts poked their noses back in front.
And that's how it stayed through until half-time in a feisty encounter in the North East.