Newcastle United were handed a major boost on Saturday.
Not only did Newcastle beat Fulham to end what has been a difficult week in positive fashion but Sven Botman finally made his return.
The defender played during the closing stages of the game as Eddie Howe’s side eased to a victory having turned on the style in the second-half.
Lewis Miley, Miguel Almiron and Dan Burn scored the goals, allowing Botman to come on with little risk.
It was the first time the 23-year-old had taken to the field since scoring against Sheffield United in September, offering a major boost to the team.
As you can imagine, teammates were delighted. Including Joe Willock.
Sven Botman: Joe Willock reacts to Newcastle’s major injury boost
After Botman had taken to Instagram to tell his followers how delighted he was to have made his comeback, Willock – injured himself – replied: “Finally we found the keys to our Rolls Royce”, accompanied by a fire emoji.
Given how good the former Lille defender has been since a £35m move to St James’ Park, it would be fair to say Newcastle fans would echo what Willock says.
Newcastle injuries: Botman will be needed right away
While it was fantastic to see Botman back in action, Newcastle did not have it all their own way against Fulham.
As is seemingly the case with every passing game at the moment, Howe was dealt yet more worries.
Indeed, both Fabian Schar and Joelinton were forced off ahead of the Carabao Cup quarter-final against Chelsea on Tuesday, with the Swiss in particular likely to be a big miss.
Though there is yet to be an update in regards to Schar’s fitness, Howe lacks totally convincing options behind him other than Botman.
In an ideal world, he would be eased back into action but with Schar potentially out, that luxury seems unlikely.
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