Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has provided an exciting fitness update on Sven Botman.
The Dutch defender recently returned from injury, with Sven Botman coming on as a substitute in Newcastle United’s previous two games.
He has replaced Fabian Schar in both instances, with the 33-year-old a doubt for Sunday’s game against Chelsea. However, Schar has been seen in Newcastle training, and will hopefully be fit to start at St James’ Park.
If not, Botman is on standby. The £35million centre-back has not started for the Magpies since January, but Eddie Howe believes that Botman is almost ready to be included in the starting XI if required.
Eddie Howe shares Sven Botman fitness update
Ahead of Newcastle’s game against Chelsea, Howe spoke to the media.
The Newcastle United manager was asked how close Botman is to being able to start games.
“He’s definitely getting there,” he said.
“Most importantly, he’s had a sustained run of training, injury free, looking good.
“That’s always a great thing for us and for Sven. I think he feels confident in his body again, which is hugely important after the couple of injuries he’s had.
“He’s a huge player as we know. He’s got standout qualities. He’s close.”
Time is running out for Jamaal Lascelles this season
In total, Botman has started five times in all competitions this season.
With three Premier League matches remaining, there is a chance that number could increase.
But while Botman aims to get back into the Magpies’ starting XI, his fellow centre-back is further back in his recovery.
Jamaal Lascelles has not played for Newcastle United since March 30th 2024. The club captain has been unavailable for more than 13 months after an ACL injury.
However, Lascelles is back in training. The 31-year-old is hoping to make at least one appearance this season, but time is running out.
Fortunately for Lascelles, this will not be the end of his Toon career. It was recently reported that Lascelles has a Newcastle contract until 2026 after signing an extension.
While it appears to be a race against time for Lascelles to feature this season, he should be fully fit by the time pre-season arrives. Newcastle are set to play Celtic in a friendly, while they also have a game in Singapore against Arsenal lined up.
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