Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe has discussed the injury sustained by Sven Botman against Liverpool.
Newcastle United centre-back Sven Botman hobbled off the pitch in the dying stages of the game against Liverpool at St James’ Park on Sunday.
With Botman off the pitch, Newcastle conceded one more goal against ten-man Liverpool, condemning them to a heartbreaking defeat.
The Magpies had been in control for so much of the match, but a late rally from the Reds saw Darwin Nunez score twice in quick succession to confirm a dramatic comeback and ensure that Eddie Howe’s wretched record against the Merseyside outfit endured.
Things could get even worse for Howe if Botman finds himself sidelined for a considerable period. The English coach is certainly worried that the 23-year-old is seriously hurt. Speaking to NUFC TV about Botman after the match, Howe said, “It looks like an ankle problem. I don’t know what the damage is or how he’s sustained it…He was walking with the aid of somebody, so it doesn’t look good, but fingers crossed it settles down quickly.”
Botman a crucial figure for Newcastle
The Newcastle medical team will assess Botman as soon as they can. However, before then, Newcastle fans can take some solace from The Athletic journalist Jacob Whitehead Tweeting that the Dutchman was not wearing a protective boot or using crutches when he left St James’ Park after the match.
The Magpies paid £35 million to sign Botman from Lille in 2022. The 6’4” man has since been a revelation on Tyneside, establishing himself as a key figure in the heart of the Newcastle rearguard and forming an impressive partnership with Fabian Schar.
Howe will be desperate for Botman’s injury to only be a very minor knock, and to get the £90,000-a-week man back on the pitch as soon as possible. If the club are to achieve their aims this season, then Botman will be at the heart of the success, and keeping him fit will be of paramount importance throughout the campaign.
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