Newcastle United have suffered a massive blow after Eddie Howe confirmed Sven Botman could be out for a long spell.
Sky Sports journalist Keith Downie has relayed the news on Twitter, quoting Howe, who says that there has been an “issue” with Botman at the moment.
The 23-year-old Dutch defender has been out for a while with a knee injury. He was making gradual progress and returned to grass recently, but it seems he has picked up a fresh injury.
According to the Chronicle, Botman is not close to being involved against Manchester United in the Carabao Cup, Arsenal in the top flight, or the trip to Borussia Dortmund.
“Eddie Howe reveals Sven Botman has had a set-back in his recovery from a knee injury: “There’s an issue there. We are working through various options to try & diagnose the injury properly. Does he fall into the longer-term category? Yeah, perhaps. But we’re awaiting clarity,” wrote Downie on Twitter.
He wrote in a separate tweet: “Eddie Howe says Newcastle must “absorb the hits” and “roll with the punches” when referring to his side’s growing injury list. Seven players out injured for the trip to Old Trafford — with the spine of the team missing. “The key message is everyone has to give a bit more.”
Long list of Injuries
The Magpies are missing a host of key players at the moment. Last week they suffered a huge blow after it was confirmed that Sandro Tonali will miss the rest of the season for his involvement in betting activities.
Harvey Barnes is a long-term absentee. He is likely to be out for two or three months after picking up an ankle injury. While he didn’t need any surgery, he is still nowhere near to returning to full fitness.
Jacob Murphy picked up a nasty injury in the Champions League clash and Howe suggested that he may need an operation.
Elliot Anderson and Alexander Isak are both expected to return after the international break.
