Newcastle United skipper Alan Shearer has run into another injury problem.

Shearer was in action for only 22 minutes during United's two-match trip to the USA because of knee trouble.

Manager Bobby Robson yesterday insisted it was a "minor" recurrence of the tendonitis that flared up during Euro 2000,

But Robson admitted that Shearer was surprised the the problem returned after three weeks rest and it will be a concern for United with the Premiership season only three weeks away.

Shearer sat out United's second game when they drew 2-2 with MLS club Columbus Crew in Ohio yesterday.

Now Robson will wait for a medical report before deciding if the striker can return at Burnley on Monday.

Argentinian Christian Bassedas, a £3.5m summer signing, is certain to be out - and could miss the start of the Premiership season.

Robson was furious over the Crew's treatment of Bassedas who will need an x-ray to discover if he has a broken foot.

"They kicked him from pillar to post," fumed Robson. "We hope he hasn't fractured his foot, but he can put his weight on it and that's a good sign."

Kieron Dyer is another worry for Robson after limping off with sore shins only 17 minutes into the match.

It's an unhappy end to the trip for Dyer, who earlier delighted Robson with his attitude.

Dyer's off-the-field activities annoyed Robson during the summer, but he said in America:"I've watched him since we arrived here and he has settled down very well. It's something which has pleased me and the rest of the staff."

Carl Cort hit both of Newcastle's goals to stake his claim to start the season ahead of Duncan Ferguson, who was ruled out of the two matches because of a chest infection.

l Celtic manager Martin O'Neill last night confirmed that former Newcastle number two Tommy Burns will remain at the club.

Burns' future at Parkhead had been in doubt after the sacking of director of football Kenny Dalglish, who had brought him in after the dismissal of John Barnes