Botman was replaced during Sunday's Tyne-Wear derby defeat with a facial injury
Newcastle United's Dutch defender Sven Botman leaves the pitch after being injured against Sunderland
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Newcastle United have confirmed defender Sven Botman will be out of action until the 'final weeks of the season' after undergoing surgery to repair a facial fracture suffered in Sunday's Tyne-Wear derby defeat to Sunderland.
Botman was replaced in the 55th minute of United's 2-1 defeat to St James' Park by Malick Thiaw with a suspected concussion after being on the receiving end of a challenge from Black Cats goalscorer Brian Brobbey.
A Newcastle United club statement read: "Newcastle United defender Sven Botman has undergone successful surgery on a facial fracture.
"Following concussion protocol, the Dutchman was substituted after suffering the injury during the second half of Sunday's game against Sunderland at St. James' Park.
"Sven is not expected to be sidelined for an extended period and hopes to be available again during the closing weeks of the season.
"Everybody at the club wishes Sven a swift recovery."
It is a huge blow for Newcastle, who were hoping to have four fit centre-halves available for the first time since November with Fabian Schar looking to be fit for the trip to Crystal Palace next month.
But that will no longer be the case, with Botman set for a second prolonged period on the sidelines this season after suffering a back injury that ruled him out for the entirety of December.
The Dutch defender, who signed a new contract at the club until the summer of 2030 earlier this year, has made 31 appearances in all competitions this season and will hope he returns to action with Newcastle still in the mix to secure European football next term.
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