Newcastle confirm Sven Botman surgery and hope defender returns before season ends | OneFootball

Newcastle United suffered their 13th Premier League loss of the season on Sunday, falling to a dramatic 2-1 defeat to rivals Sunderland at St.James’ Park.

Defender Sven Botman was substituted in the 54th minute due to an injury and was replaced by Malick Thiaw.

Newcastle have now revealed that Botman suffered a facial fracture and has undergone surgery.

However, the Dutchman is not expected to be sidelined for an extended period, and the club hope he returns before the end of the season.

Botman has already missed 11 games through injury this term. He has featured in 31 games across all competitions, chipping in with two goals and one assist.

Botman and Thiaw are manager Eddie Howe’s first-choice centre-back pairing. The Dutch centre-back started six of the eight league games in which the Magpies have kept a clean sheet this season.

The Dutchman’s aerial presence and positional awareness have made him an important part of Newcastle’s defence.

Dan Burn is now expected to play alongside Thiaw while Botman recovers from his latest fitness setback.

Sunday’s defeat to Sunderland leaves Newcastle four points adrift of seventh-placed Brentford, who occupy the last European qualification spot.

The Magpies have been inconsistent this season and must address that if they are to secure European qualification.

Howe will also hope his key players return fit from the international break as Newcastle look to finish the season strongly.

Newcastle are back in action on April 12 when they face Crystal Palace at the Selhurst Park.