‘Perhaps’ - Newcastle United confirm new injury fear for star who’s already missed seven games

Sven Botman has suffered a setback in his recovery from a knee injury, Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe has confirmed.

The Dutchman hasn’t featured for the Magpies since scoring his first goal for the club ub the 8-0 victory at Sheffield United last month.

It was hoped the 23-year-old would return before the international in just under two weeks’ time but Howe has revealed the defender doesn’t have a return date.

“[Sven] Botman is unclear at the moment, we’re going day-by-day with that one currently,” the Magpies’ head coach told reporters ahead of Wednesday’s Carabao Cup clash at Manchester United.

“Yeah there’s an issue there and we’re working through various options to try and diagnose the injury problem.” Perhaps [he’ll be out longer-term]. As I say, we’re still waiting clarity on what is happening with his situation.

Botman is one of eight players missing for the trip to Old Trafford.

In the last week alone, Newcastle have lost Alexander Isak (thigh), Jacob Murphy (shoulder) and Elliot Anderson (back) to injury, who all join Harvey Barnes (toe), Lewis Miley (illness) and Javier Manquillo (groin) in the treatment room.

Meanwhile, Sandro Tonali is banned for the next 10 months following an investigation into illegal betting activity.

“I don’t think we’re expecting anyone who wasn’t available before Wolves to be available now,” Howe said. The majority are longer term, unfortunately for us, that’s the position we’re in so we’ll go with a very similar squad.

“We’ll be juggling minutes and trying to make sure we are very competitive. We want to try and compete in every game but make sure when players enter the pitch they’re able to give their best.

“I think in this next game that’s going to be a bit of a juggling act but we do have the players who can play different positions. It’s one of the strengths of our squad so we’re certainly going to utilise that.”