Sven Botman out: Newcastle United predicted starting XI vs Southampton

Eddie Howe is expected to name a largely unchanged starting XI for Newcastle United’s Premier League clash against Southampton.

The Magpies lost 4-1 to AFC Bournemouth last Saturday and one of the changes Howe made at half-time was Fabian Schar for Sven Botman at centre-half.

And Howe faces the difficult decision of choosing between the two at St Mary’s with Dan Burn set to retain his spot. It is a decision Howe hasn’t had to make for a while Botman was previously sidelined for nine months with an ACL injury.

Schar, meanwhile, has started just once in 2025 due to suspension and then illness.

Howe said: “Yes, it was a challenge for Sven and I think Fabian has been ill and he wasn't 100% fit and then we had Sven who had done really well.

“I think he's been magnificent since his return, but obviously that was a challenge for him and I thought he looked a little bit fatigued in the game. Naturally, because he's been thrust into action, which has been a great thing for him.

“Minimal time to think, just straight back in and you've got to find his rhythm and by and large I think he's been excellent in all respects.

“A challenging few days for him, but he's one player that we've tried to look after and he's had a bit longer to recover and Fabi now hopefully is over his illness as well.”

Newcastle are set to welcome back Nick Pope from a knee injury, although Martin Dubravka is expected to retain his place in goal having helped the team win nine of their last 10 matches.

Meanwhile, Southampton have won only once in the Premier League this campaign, putting them bottom of the table.

Here’s how Newcastle United are predicted to line-up at St Mary’s: