NEWPORT County AFC manager Michael Flynn admits he does not know when loan star Shawn McCoulsky will be fit to return to action.

The Bristol City striker, joint top scorer for County with 11 goals in 35 appearances, has been diagnosed with pericarditis – inflammation of the fibrous sac surrounding the heart known as the pericardium.

McCoulsky returned to his parent club last week to be assessed and has been advised to rest.

And, with County only having six games left to play, it’s possible that the 21-year-old has made his last appearance in an amber shirt.

Bristol City assistant head coach Dean Holden said this week: “He’s going through a tough time at the moment. They've found something just outside of his heart so he's gone for further tests.

“The situation was flagged up by our physio, and Newport reacted really professionally and in a quick manner. They made us aware of it as quickly as they could.

“He’s been advised to stay away from exercise for the time being, and everyone at the club wishes him well.”

The striker will play no part against Swindon Town on Saturday and Flynn is unsure when he will be available again.

“I haven’t spoken to Bristol City yet,” said the Exiles boss.

“Adam [Brown] the physio is in close contact with them and with the doctor.

“Bristol City wanted to check him out themselves, which is understandable as he’s their player.

“I know it involves a period of rest to get him right and I don’t know how long that rest is going to be.

“I’m hoping he’s back because he’d give us an extra option.

“But I just hope he’s alright. If he’s out for the rest of the season and he’s fine after that then [great]. All that concerns me is his health.

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“I thought he had a chest infection at first and then when he spoke to the doctor,” he added.

“I’ll be honest, I don’t understand exactly what it is. I know it’s an infection around the heart and it’s always worrying when it’s around that part of the body but I’m sure that the right people are looking at it and he’s going to get the right advice and help he needs to recover fully.”

McCoulsky’s absence adds to County’s injury problems with fellow strikers Paul Hayes (calf) and Marlon Jackson (hamstring) also likely to miss Saturday’s match.

Defender Mark O’Brien, who missed last week’s 1-0 home defeat against Stevenage with a knee problem, is also ruled out according to Flynn.

“We’re struggling up front. Marlon’s out, Hayesy’s out and Shawn McCoulsky’s out,” said the manager.

“Marlon’s hamstring has tightened up so I’m not optimistic about him.

“Mark O’Brien is out as well so we’re low on numbers and we’ll just do what we can.”