Newcastle’s injury crisis is set to continue this weekend, as Eddie Howe will yet again be without defender Sven Botman.
The Dutchman picked up an injury after Newcastle’s 8-0 victory over Sheffield United, and has not been seen since.
Newcastle have conceded just once in the three games he has missed, but it would have been ideal to have him back for Sunday’s trip to face West Ham United.
Howe confirms Botman absence
Speaking in his press conference today, Eddie Howe confirmed that Botman will definitely be absent for Sunday’s match, and did not give any indication of whether the 23-year-old could return after the international break.
“Sven Botman won’t make it on Sunday,” he stated.
However, he did hint that Botman’s injury is not a serious one, claiming that out of the current absentees, only Harvey Barnes is set for an extended spell on the sidelines.
“The injury list doesn’t look great but apart from Harvey Barnes I don’t think there’s anything long-term there.”
Lascelles to continue fine form
There was a little bit of scepticism when it became apparent that club captain Jamaal Lascelles would be the one to replace Botman during his absence, rather than other options which included moving Dan Burn to the centre.
However, Lascelles has performed superbly since coming in, and looks revitalised as a starter again after a difficult campaign last year.
Lascelles was impressive in the victory over Paris Saint-Germain, and has earned his place in the side until Botman returns.
Howe has previously praised Botman as a “consistent” player, and losing someone that reliable is frustrating, but Newcastle have coped well with Lascelles stepping in.
His strong form comes as a boost for Eddie Howe, as Newcastle were slightly thin on defensive depth, but having a player like Lascelles able to slot straight into the side and perform well speaks volumes about the quality of Newcastle’s squad now.
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