Newcastle United's Sven Botman
Newcastle United's Sven Botman (Image: Iain Buist/Newcastle Chronicle)
Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe admits that the Magpies are sweating on the fitness of Dutchman Sven Botman ahead of the trip to Arsenal.
Botman limped off against Chelsea after 55 minutes, but Howe has played the setback down as "just a knock," although the player was scanned and is being assessed again today. Howe was keen to stress that Botman - who has missed 59 matches in the last two seasons - was not suffering from a serious injury.
Howe, speaking at his Press conference ahead of the trip to the Emirates Stadium, said: "It was a knock and he got a bang on his knee. It was sure. We are not sure about Sven's availability at the weekend. We will give him every chance to be fit.
"It's not the case (that it is serious). The ACL was the ACL, the first injury came from a knock as well. This is a similar thing, he has just been unlucky on the last two occasions.
"I think there is that feeling that he is frustrated. I have been there, the majority of the second half of my career. You are getting disappointments, things are coming at you, and there is nothing you can do about them."
Howe - who has Jamaal Lascelles fit again - did not want to commit to Botman's fitness but was quick to rule out former England defender Kieran Trippier. Although, he offered more hope on Joe Willock, who returns to his old club.
Howe said: "Kieran I don't think so but again not a big injury, minor and not serious. Joe Willock, we will leave the door open, I think there's a slight chance."
The other big question mark for fans is whether Joelinton will be available for the crunch clash but Howe suggested he may not play again this season.
Howe said: "He is working away behind the scenes. He is typical Joe, foot to the floor to be involved. He is not close."
Newcastle's injury woes are weighing heavy on the squad as they head into the last two matches. Howe said: "We are light, January played a part in that, losing two players. We have managed to keep the majority fit. I think when you get a run of injuries you can look thin very quickly."