Steven Taylor leaves hospital amid reports of scuffle in training

The 24-year-old was admitted to Newcastle General Hospital at the weekend and reports have since emerged of an alleged training ground bust-up with team-mate Andy Carroll.

Taylor, who has spent the last two months recovering from a knee injury, was said to have suffered a broken jaw in the incident. Newcastle, who beat Doncaster Rovers in the Coca-Cola Championship at the Keepmoat Stadium last night, have not commented on the allegations. Carroll, ironically, scored the only goal of the game as Newcastle won 1-0.

Owner Mike Ashley and Derek Llambias have launched an internal investigation, with sources on Tyneside revealing they are furious the focus has been taken off the club's promotion bid at a time when they were making headlines for the right reasons.

However, Northumbria Police have confirmed that the matter has not been reported to them.

Taylor is not expected to play again this season.

Carroll, 21, faces a Crown Court appearance next month on an assault charge in connection with an incident at a city night-spot.

He is currently the club's leading scorer this season with 15 goals after emerging from the academy ranks to stake a claim for a regular starting berth.

Carroll's winning strike at Doncaster last night moved Newcastle five points clear of West Bromwich Albion at the top of the Championship table.