Newcastle United defender Sven Botmanplaceholder image
Newcastle United defender Sven Botman | Getty Images
Sven Botman is aiming to return for Newcastle United before the end of the season.
Newcastle United have confirmed Sven Botman will face an “extended period” on the sidelines after suffering a setback against Sunderland.
With the scoreline at 1-0, the Dutchman suffered a head injury and was forced off. Malick Thiaw came on and Sunderland equalised moments later through Chemsdine Talbi.
The nightmare continued when Brian Brobbey sank black-and-white hearts in stoppage time to snatch a Tyne-Wear derby victory. An official club statement confirmed Botman has undergone facial surgery, with the defender hoping to be back for the closing weeks of the campaign.
“Newcastle United defender Sven Botman has undergone successful surgery on a facial fracture,” an announcement read. “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.”
Eddie Howe on Sven Botman contract
Speaking last month, Eddie Howe agreed that finalising Botman’s contract - signed in January - has helped him rediscover his best form. He told reporters: “It would certainly help. For any player, if you have your future settled and you're not worrying about contract length or anything to do with off the pitch and you know you're here, then you've got to be all in.
“I think Sven has always been someone who has been fully committed. I've never seen a day where he's been distracted. But just when you have certainty over your future, I think it can certainly give you a feeling of contentment. And then you focus on what's really important, which is your performance and everything that goes into that.”
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