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Newcastle United supporters have been calling for one man following Monday night’s dismal defeat: Sven Botman.
While nobody could swarm into St James’ Park to provide the panacea to Eddie Howe’s problems, the Dutchman’s return is much-needed. The Magpies have been without their star centre-back since March’s loss to Chelsea.
Surgery to eradicate an underlying ACL issue served a hammer blow to Newcastle earlier this year. Not only did the 24-year-old miss United’s crucial run-in, his absence has trickled into the first 12 games of 2024-25.
Toon chiefs fought off European royalty to persuade Botman to join the Saudi-backed revolution. AC Milan - supported by Paolo Maldini as sporting director - failed as the shiny new project at St James’ Park took off.
Botman was instrumental in his debut season as Newcastle secured Champions League football. Just 33 goals conceded was the joint most in the Premier League and, without the centre-back, the backline has stuttered.
Howe’s side shipped in 62 goals last season and were found wanting defensively against West Ham United on Monday. Lloyd Kelly - who deputised for the injured Botman and suspended Dan Burn - lost Tomas Soucek for the opener off a corner.
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Fans prayed for Botman’s immediate return to the team, although he is not expected to make a full recovery until next month. One supporter posted: “(That was) so frustrating but we need to stay positive.
“We got the best out of Isak when Wilson was fit and backing him up. We had huge chances in the first half especially and it’s a stone wall on Wilson second half. We need Botman back fit and major investment in the January window.”
Another wrote: “We have no plan B and it feels like Howe still has no clue on breaking down defensive teams. I always told myself my season starts when Botman returns!”
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