Sven Botman has sent an intriguing message to Newcastle United supporters ahead of Sunday’s game against Crystal Palace.
The Dutchman has been out of action since late November with a back injury, with his last appearance coming in Newcastle United’s win over Manchester City.
Sven Botman has subsequently missed nine games, resulting in Dan Burn and Fabian Schar getting the chance to play alongside Malick Thiaw at centre-back.
It was recently reported that Botman could return in early January, and a social media post from the man himself on Saturday morning suggests that his comeback could be imminent.
Wissa has to start against Palace! Tell me I’m wrong!
Sven Botman says he is ‘ready’ after injury
Ahead of Newcastle United facing Crystal Palace on Sunday, Eddie Howe confirmed that Botman was very close to being involved.
Now the 25-year-old has provided a cryptic update of his own, taking to his official Instagram account on the eve of Newcastle’s first game of 2026.
Alongside a picture of him playing for Newcastle United at St James’ Park this season, Botman wrote ‘ready’ on his Instagram story next to a pair of black and white heart emojis.
That would suggest he is ‘ready’ to return to action after more than a month on the sidelines, so do not be surprised to see him back in the Newcastle United squad against Crystal Palace.
While his imminent return is a major boost, it is unlikely that Botman will immediately be restored to the starting XI. Instead, Thiaw and Schar are expected to start together at centre-back on Sunday.
- Who is Sven Botman? Get the lowdown on Newcastle United’s Dutch defensive dynamo
Big injury boost ahead of Palace! 💪 Would you start Botman?
Newcastle United’s record with and without Sven Botman this season
So far this season, Botman has made 15 appearances for Newcastle United.
During those 15 appearances, Newcastle have won eight, lost five and drawn two.
In total, the former Lille defender has missed 13 games due to injury or not being selected. Those 13 games resulted in five wins, four defeats and four draws.
Newcastle United have been much better with Botman in the team, which is why Eddie Howe will be delighted that he is set to be available once again.
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