Eddie Howe knows exactly how Newcastle United defender Sven Botman feels right now.
After all, the Newcastle United manager had major injury problems during his career.
That is Sven Botman’s problem right now. The Dutchman suffered two ACL injuries last season, while he recently had surgery on a separate knee injury.
The 25-year-old returned to the Newcastle United starting XI last week, playing very well in the 2-0 win over Chelsea.
But he was forced off in the 55th minute, with Botman now a doubt to face Arsenal on Sunday.
Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images
Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images
Eddie Howe understands why Sven Botman is ‘frustrated’
It has been another frustrating season for Botman, and his manager completely understands why he will be feeling that way after another setback.
However, Eddie Howe has been keen to emphasise just how important the centre-back is when he is available.
“There is that feeling, I can sense from him that he’s frustrated,” he said.
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“But I’ve been there for the majority of the second half of my career where you’re getting disappointments, things are coming at you and you can’t necessarily control them.
“That is the nature of the sport. Sometimes you will have an idea where an injury comes from, sometimes it will come out of the blue. There is nothing you can do about it.
“Sven has been really unfortunate on the last two occasions. There is nothing you can do. It’s part of your occupation.
“He’s brave. He’s a whole-hearted player, which you need to be in his position. Naturally, you’re going to come out the wrong side of those challenges sometimes. Most important thing is there is no long-term damage, because he’s such an important player for us.
“You’ve seen every time he has played this season, the contribution he has given the team. You go back to the Champions League season, he was absolutely immense. We certainly missed him last year.”
Newcastle United aiming to sign Sven Botman’s long-term partner
It remains to be seen if Botman will play again for Newcastle United this season.
It would be great if he can feature, but Toon officials will know that the most important thing is having him fully fit for next season.
It is going to be a big summer for Botman, after he missed the 2024 pre-season preparations.
Despite his injury issues, Newcastle still have big plans for Botman. The £35million man has proven during his appearances this season that he is still exceptionally gifted, while he remains completely committed to the Magpies.
Botman wants to sign a new contract at Newcastle, as the club searches for a new centre-back to join him at St James’ Park.
The Magpies are keen to sign a new right-sided centre-back this summer. While Fabian Schar and Dan Burn have been exceptional this season, the overall goal will be for the new recruit to play alongside Botman at the back in the years to come.
Newcastle want Marc Guehi, while Illia Zabarnyi is also a target. He will be expensive, with Bournemouth wanting £50million for Zabarnyi.