Sven Botman ruled out for another two months as Newcastle United defender posts update
Sven Botman has published fresh pictures of himself being put through his paces ahead of a Newcastle United return.
The Dutchman has not played for Eddie Howe’s side since the 3-2 defeat to Chelsea in March. Botman underwent ACL surgery to resolve a knee issue that previously ruled him out for three months.
Suffering a slight tear against Brentford a year ago, the defender astonishingly played two further games with the injury. He was soon sidelined until the festive period but, when he returned, never looked like the same player.
Newcastle ultimately took the decision to perform surgery but that ruled Botman out for six to nine months. With Jamaal Lascelles also suffering an ACL injury just weeks later against West Ham United, the Magpies were embroiled in a defensive crisis. Watch on Shots! Geordie Journos reflect on Newcastle United takeover - three years on
Dan Burn and Fabian Schar have marshalled the backline for most of Botman’s absence, with Newcastle also adding Lloyd Kelly to their ranks in the summer. Emil Krafth, too, has also stepped up when called upon to fill the £35million void.
Botman’s return will provide a huge boost to Howe given his importance in securing a Champions League return two years ago. The Daily Mail report the Dutchman will be available for selection in December.
Toon chiefs added James Bunce to their ranks as performance director over the summer following last year’s injury crisis. An expert in sports rehabilitation, the Magpies are wary about rushing players back quickly.
Botman recently posted a picture on Instagram with the caption “finish line in sight” - positive news for Newcastle fans. The 24-year-old has played just 66 times in his two-and-a-half years since joining from Lille, scoring twice.