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Newcastle United's defensive lineup suffers a significant setback as center-back Sven Botman is sidelined for eight weeks following knee surgery
Newcastle United's defensive lineup has been dealt a significant blow as center-back Sven Botman faces another spell on the sidelines due to a knee injury.
The 25-year-old Dutch international, who recently returned from a prolonged absence, is now expected to be out for approximately eight weeks following a surgical procedure.
Botman's injury woes began in March 2024 when he suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during an FA Cup match against Manchester City, sidelining him for nearly ten months.
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He made his much-anticipated return in January 2025, featuring in five matches before encountering issues with his other knee. The latest setback occurred just before the match against Brighton on March 2, prompting further medical evaluation.
Newcastle's manager, Eddie Howe, addressed the situation, stating, "We have been trying to get him back to full fitness; he was very close to the Brighton game but the day before he felt something again in his knee."
Howe further elaborated, "This week he has had the same discomfort, so it looks like he will have to have an operation." The procedure aims to "clear out some fluid," with an anticipated recovery period of about two months.
Botman's absence adds to Newcastle's growing list of defensive concerns. Left-back Lewis Hall, 20, has been ruled out for the remainder of the season due to a foot injury that requires surgery.
Hall, who was on the brink of an England call-up, sustained a bone injury in his foot, significantly impacting the team's defensive options.
The timing of these injuries is particularly challenging as Newcastle prepares for the Carabao Cup final against Liverpool on March 16.
The team will also be without forward Anthony Gordon, who received a red card in the FA Cup fifth-round defeat by Brighton. Gordon was dismissed for raising his hands to the face of defender Jan Paul van Hecke, leading to a suspension that rules him out of the Wembley final.
Reflecting on Gordon's situation, Howe commented, "There was no intention from Anthony. He didn't mean to hurt anybody."
However, after considering the likelihood of a successful appeal, the club decided against it, with Howe noting, "If there is no chance, then what is the point of appealing, and Anthony understands that."
The cumulative effect of these absences poses a significant challenge for Newcastle as they approach the final.
Botman's leadership and defensive prowess have been instrumental in the team's performances, and his absence will be felt deeply. Similarly, Hall's injury deprives the team of a promising talent who has been pivotal in their defensive lineup.
In light of these developments, Newcastle's medical team is reevaluating their approach to player rehabilitation and injury prevention.
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