Eddie Howe is sweating on the fitness of a couple of players ahead of Newcastle United’s game against Burnley.
The Magpies made 10 changes during the week against Manchester City, in a decision that massively paid off. Newcastle won 1-0, advancing to the fourth round of the Carabao Cup.
Some of Howe’s changes were tactical, while others were enforced. Callum Wilson and Sven Botman both started the Premier League win over Sheffield United, but were completely absent for the midweek cup clash. The former has a hamstring issue, while the latter has a problem with his knee.
Now the Newcastle boss has spoke about the duo, and has admitted that they are facing late checks to be involved against Burnley this weekend.
Eddie Howe provides updates on Sven Botman and Callum Wilson
Ahead of the game against Burnley, Howe spoke to the media. He provided an update on the fitness of Wilson and Botman.
“”We’re going to see today,” he said.
“Callum has very minor hamstring tightness. We’ll give him every chance of being available.
“Same with Sven – we’ll make a late check on him.”
Newcastle need Botman fully fit for a big week on Tyneside
Newcastle coped fine without Botman on Wednesday. Paul Dummett took his place and played absolutely brilliantly.
However, Howe will be keen to recall the 23-year-old Dutchman, as he is arguably our best centre-back. His return from an ankle injury following the international break has been crucial to us re-finding our form.
If Botman is unavailable, it will likely mean that Dan Burn plays at centre-back. He has started there once this season, but massively struggled in a 3-1 defeat to Brighton.
Hopefully Botman is fit to feature, but Howe will also have one eye on the upcoming Champions League clash with Paris Saint-Germain.
Newcastle face the Ligue 1 champions on Wednesday, and it is absolutely vital that Botman starts that game. Therefore, Howe might be unwilling to risk him against Burnley.
We will find out at 2pm on Saturday when Howe announces his starting XI to face the Clarets.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
