Sven Botman released from Netherlands training camp due to virus

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Sven Botman was hoping to make his Netherlands debut on Friday night against France, but that will no longer be happening.

The Newcastle United defender is suffering from a virus, with Botman one of five Dutch players who have been left the training camp.

The Netherlands team’s official website has confirmed that Botman, Cody Gakpo, Matthijs de Ligt, Joey Veerman and Bart Verbruggen are no longer with the group and will not be with the team that takes on France.

They are all suffering from a virus, and have been replaced by Ronald Koeman for Friday night’s Euro 2024 qualifier.

It is a blow for Botman, who is yet to make a senior appearance for his country, and was rewarded with a callup following his fine form in the Premier League.

However, he might still get a chance during the current international break. The decision will be reviewed after the game against France, meaning Botman and the other four players could be recalled. Their following game is against Gibraltar.

Newcastle will hope Sven Botman is fine to face Manchester United

The fact that it is a virus rather than an injury will provide some comfort for Newcastle. Obviously they won’t want their player to be suffering from illness, but he is more likely to recover from that quickly than he is with a physical injury like a muscle problm.

Botman will be gutted, as he has worked incredibly hard to earn international recognition. He even chose club over country back in September, in a decision that did not go down well. However, it paid off with the 23-year-old helping Newcastle become the best defensive side in the Premier League.

Hopefully he can shake off this virus quickly, as the Magpies have a huge game immediately after the international break.

Newcastle face Manchester United at St James’ Park on April 2nd, in a game that has huge Champions League ramifications. It is also a chance for the Magpies to get some revenge after the Carabao Cup final disappointment.

Botman is a guaranteed starter when fit, so Howe will be praying that the £35million man is ready to play in just over a week.