‘Sven Botman is back’ – Newcastle fans rejoice at latest news
Newcastle United supporters were in celebration as centre-back Sven Botman returned to action, featuring in a U21 match today.
The Dutch defender has endured a challenging recovery journey. After sustaining a knee injury in September 2023, he made a brief return in December, only to suffer a cruciate ligament injury in March 2024.
This has sidelined the highly-rated £34.5 million man [BBC Sport] for a total of 46 matches for the Magpies.
Fans were thrilled to see him start in the U21s’ academy match against Chelsea on December 16.
This development follows a Football Insider report revealing that Botman had recently participated in first-team training sessions.
Newcastle fans eagerly anticipating Botman’s return to the squad
The Toon Army’s season has had its ups and downs, including impressive wins against Arsenal and Manchester City but also significant challenges, leaving them 12th in the table.
Eddie Howe’s side enjoyed a commanding 4-0 victory over Leicester over the weekend (14 December), but the injury woes continue.
Striker Callum Wilson suffered another setback, prompting fans to call for his departure. Reports suggest the club is ready to let Wilson leave upon the expiration of his contract.
However, both fans and coaches hold a very different view of Botman. His displays at St. James’ Park have left a lasting impression, and his potential return has sparked excitement.
One fan described his appearance in the U21 match as a “proud moment for the youth lads” to play alongside a defender of his calibre.
Another cautioned, “Easy does it, Sven. We need you!” Many fans expressed their eagerness to catch a glimpse of their star centre-back in action again, with some even hoping for a live stream of the game.
In other news, the Tyneside club are ready to accept offers for two players in the first team.
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