Howe issues Botman update, reveals two injury doubts, transfer stance and UCL reaction

Eddie Howe has confirmed that Sven Botman has a "small chance" of making tomorrow's game at Brighton, with Joelinton (knee) also a doubt.

A scan on the Dutchman's ankle has shown bruising and swelling but no severe damage. He's done light jogging alongside Joelinton, but neither have trained this week, leaving how with a "late call" to make.

On transfers, the boss has all but confirmed that we're done for incoming business. Shrewsbury teenager Travis Hernes is expected to join our academy, but it seems there'll be no senior arrivals.

On our Champions League - seeing us take on PSG, Dortmund and AC Milan in Group F - Howe has urged his players to show "no fear", believing we must "embrace everything" and enjoy the huge challenge ahead.

Here's what he's had to say when speaking to the press just moments ago:

Eddie Howe on Sven Botman and Joelinton:

“He (Botman) had a scan on the ankle. The scan didn’t appear too good, so there’s definitely an injury there, but it actually doesn’t present too bad.

"It’s very bruised, a little bit swollen, so he’s been very lightly jogging this week. We’re going to see how it is today and make a decision for this weekend. There's a small chance."

“Again, he (Joelinton) is another player that we're going to make a late decision. He hasn't trained this week, very similar to Sven. He's done some light jogging, he feels better with each day. We'll make a late call.”

Eddie Howe when asked if there'll be any more incomings today:

"We knew when we signed Lewis that we were not going to do any more business.

"That was going to be us unless there were a crisis in terms of positions and we were able to act...we don't think Sven's injury is too bad. We're a lot stronger than we are this time last year.

"The window has been very slow initially. There wasn't a lot of action but it's quickened up as we get to the deadline. For us, we were able to get our targets in, we've been quite settled and there'll be late moves from us."

Eddie Howe on the Champions League draw:

“It took me a few seconds to process it - the draw is quite complex!

“There was a bit of silence...for about an hour! No, only joking, for about 10 seconds! When the dust settles you look with pure excitement.

"No negativity from us internally towards the draw. [It's] Challenging but some great European games to experience and great places to visit for our supporters. It's a great thing.

"It has to be an attitude of no fear. No doubts. Let's embrace everything that it's going to bring. It's going to challenge us hugely....there are no doubts about the size of the challenge, but bring it on. That's how we have to feel