The Egyptian midfielder was handed a rare start at St. James' Park, before he was taken off in the 68th minute for Jeremie Aliadiere.

Curiously, Newcastle scored twice right after Shawky's exit.

Second-half goals from substitutes Obafemi Martins and Peter Lovenkrands on 71 and 86 minutes respectively sealed a crucial North-East derby win for the Magpies.

Boro's third-minute lead, through an own goal by Senegal defender Habib Beye, was cancelled out by a Stephen Taylor header six minutes later.

Middlesbrough are now in the penultimate place on 31 points, leveling with rock bottom West Brom. Newcastle popped out of the danger zone on 34 points.

Gareth Southgate's team have two games left against Aston Villa and West Ham.