Newcastle’s Botman out for months with cruciate ligament (ACL) injury

Newcastle United’s defender, Sven Botman, is set to face a significant setback in his career as he prepares to undergo surgery for an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury.

The 24-year-old Dutch centre-back sustained the injury during Newcastle’s recent clash against Manchester City in the FA Cup, adding to the woes of a squad already plagued by various fitness concerns.

Botman’s injury history has been a cause for concern, with this latest setback coming on the heels of a previous knee problem that sidelined him for nearly three months earlier in the season. Despite opting for a non-surgical rehabilitation plan initially, the severity of the ACL injury necessitates surgical intervention, ruling him out of action for an estimated period of six to nine months.

The news of Botman’s extended absence comes as a blow to Newcastle manager Eddie Howe, who has been struggling with a thread of injuries to key players throughout the campaign. The team’s aspirations for European qualification have been diminished by the unavailability of several crucial players, including goalkeeper Nick Pope, midfielder Joelinton, and striker Callum Wilson, among others.

Botman’s impact on the team has been notable since he arrived at St James’ Park, with the defender playing a pivotal role in the club’s defensive setup and contributing to their competitive performances. However, his struggle to recapture his best form following the initial injury setback has been a source of frustration for both the player and the coaching staff.

The timing of Botman’s injury adds to the challenges faced by Newcastle as they navigate a demanding fixture schedule and strive to secure positive results in the Premier League.