Sven Botman has sent a message to the Newcastle United fans following his return to the starting line-up against Chelsea.
The Dutchman had not been seen since the beginning of February after suffering another knee problem, but he made a return to the matchday squad in the 3-0 win against Ipswich Town in late April.
Sunday was Sven Botman’s first start since the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Arsenal in February, but he did not look like a player who had been missing for so long.
The 25-year-old slotted back into Eddie Howe’s starting line-up effortlessly, solidifying the back line and helping Newcastle keep another clean sheet at home.
However, Eddie Howe substituted Botman amid injury concerns, with the Toon boss confirming that he felt discomfort in his knee at half time.
While Newcastle United fans anxiously await more news on Botman’s condition, the defender has sent a message to fans after the important win.
Sven Botman thanks Newcastle United fans after Chelsea win
Howe called for Newcastle fans to be loud against Chelsea. The passionate support inside St James’ Park took that advice and made the ground a temple of noise.
The ground was rocking, and the Newcastle players and staff were well aware of it. Howe thanked the Newcastle fans for the atmosphere after the game, stating that it was exactly what the team needed with so much at stake.
Now, Botman has taken to social media to acknowledge the St James’ Park crowd for their efforts.
In an Instagram post, he wrote: “St James’ Park on fireeee.”
The comments section included replies from Newcastle players. Jacob Murphy sent a kissing emoji while Bruno Guimaraes said “king.”
Enzo Maresca believes the St James’ Park crowd helped refereeing decisions on Sunday, but Newcastle just proved to be the better team on the day.
- READ MORE – ‘There was talk’… Troy Deeney names the player who Newcastle United absolutely must not sell
Sven Botman congratulates Newcastle United ace on return
While many fans are celebrating Botman’s return to the starting XI, the Dutchman made sure to hail another returning player after being named in the matchday squad for the first time in over a year.
Jamaal Lascelles has been out of action since March 2024 after picking up an ACL injury in a win against West Ham.
Howe hinted that Lascelles may not play this season, but the 31-year-old has defied expectations and returned to the squad against Chelsea.
He did not come off the bench, but it is a huge step forward in Lascelles’ fight for full fitness.
On Botman’s Instagram story, he shared a picture of Lascelles arriving at St James’ Park with the caption: “What you love to see.”
Lascelles signed a new contract with Newcastle in April, keeping him at the club for another year.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
