Sven Botman, Newcastle United’s defender, faces a lengthy absence from the pitch, estimated between “six to nine months,” following a knee injury that requires surgical intervention. The injury, a tear to the anterior cruciate ligament, occurred during the FA Cup match against Manchester City on Saturday, which necessitated his early departure from the game. Botman, aged 24, is slated for surgery in the coming week.
Newcastle United has extended their best wishes to Botman for a “full and speedy recovery.” The Dutch defender had a previous knee injury in September, causing him to miss 17 matches, including the last five games of Newcastle’s Champions League group stage. However, he managed to return to the field in December after opting for a rehabilitation-focused recovery over surgery.
Sven Botman sidelined in another huge blow to Newcastle United
Since his comeback, Botman has been a key player for Newcastle, participating in most games until his recent injury during the match’s 83rd minute against Manchester City, which resulted in a 2-0 defeat. Post-match assessments and scans revealed the extent of his ACL injury, setting his anticipated return to six to nine months from now.
This injury adds to Newcastle manager Eddie Howe’s challenges this season, with significant players like England’s goalkeeper Nick Pope, Brazilian midfielder Joelinton, and striker Callum Wilson already sidelined due to various injuries. Despite being called up by the Netherlands national team, Botman has yet to debut internationally and will now miss the opportunity to compete in the Euro 2024 finals due to this injury.
