Newcastle United blow as Eddie Howe gives Sven Botman injury update
Eddie Howe has revealed Sven Botman is a major doubt for Newcastle United’s trip to Birmingham City this weekend.
The Dutchman hobbled off while clutching his knee in the closing stages of the 2-0 win over Arsenal. This concerned fans as Botman missed nine months last year with an ACL tear.
Newcastle misdiagnosed the severity of Botman’s injury earlier in the campaign - a move that came back to bite them as he eventually required surgery. Howe has been keen to ease the defender back into action following his return in December.
Botman played an integral role in both Carabao Cup triumphs over Arsenal. At St James' Park on Tuesday, he formed an impenetrable five-man backline, partnered by Sven Botman and Dan Burn at the heart of the defence.
However, the 25-year-old is likely not to be risked when the Magpies travel to League One opposition tomorrow. On a positive note, the knee is not the same one that needed surgery last year.
"I don't think he (Botman) will be available for this weekend. He took a knock to his knee. It's the opposite knee to the ACL injury. I don’t believe it’s a serious injury but there will be enough to keep him out of the Birmingham game. We will assess him during the week, leading into our next league game.”
Howe admitted he will freshen up his side following a gruelling Premier League and Carabao Cup run. He added: “We’ll have to (rotate). I think we have to, mentally and physically. It will be a difficult ask for the same players to go again and give the same energy to the game that they did on Wednesday.
“We don't have a huge squad, in terms of depth. We will pick a team that is strong enough to win.”