Sven Botman update - Newcastle reveal comeback latest after second knee operation

Newcastle United assistant Jason Tindall has provided an injury update on Sven Botman in his pre-match press conference ahead of our clash with Aston Villa.

The 25-year-old missed the majority of 2024 after requiring surgery on an ACL tear last March, upon his return in January he sustained an injury to his opposite knee after just five games that has seen him ruled out since the second leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final.

An eight-week timeline was given to Botman’s recovery which would have seen him back in the first week of May, however Tindall hinted in his press conference that the Dutchman may be back ahead of schedule.

Botman may return against Ipswich

Sven Botman has returned to training with the Newcastle squad but will not be ready for selection against Aston Villa, Jason Tindall has confirmed.

The Dutchman however could be involved with the squad when Newcastle take on Ipswich Town next Saturday and would be a big addition ahead of a vital run-in as the Mags continue to push to take hold of a Champions League spot.

“Certainly not this weekend (whether Botman could play against Villa),” said Tindall “It’s too soon for him this weekend. But as I said, he’s ahead of schedule. He’s back on the grass now and joining in with some parts of training.

“Maybe next weekend he could be involved or available for selection. But again, that will be assessed over the next coming days. But we’re certainly pleased with his progress.”

Botman to join Gordon on bench?

Newcastle United’s starting XI have won all of their last six games with a squad that has remained unchanged - and with the rare sight of each individual enjoying a sparkling patch of form.

Anthony Gordon is proof of how difficult this squad is to break back into. The 24-year-old has served his three match suspension and has been back in contention after recovering from a groin injury, but featured only off the bench against Manchester United and Crystal Palace.

Harvey Barnes has made the position his own in Gordon’s absence with four goals and two assists over the span of six games, Jacob Murphy has been equally irreplaceable with seven goal contributions in the same period.

Botman will have watched on as Dan Burn has enjoyed his best spell in a Newcastle shirt, highlighted by a goal in the Carabao Cup final. Fabian Schar added his fifth of the season against Palace, after hitting the crossbar from 50-yards against Leicester nine days prior.

Jason Tindall had his say on a professional Anthony Gordon, and Botman may have to be similarly patient with the form the team is on at current.

“Anthony has played the game long enough to understand that the team is playing extremely well,” said Tindall.

“Harvey Barnes and Jacob Murphy, two players in his position, are performing extremely well. At times like this as a player, as frustrating as it can be sometimes, you do need to put the shoe on the other foot and go ‘right, if I was that player performing that way, what would I expect’.

“You would always say that you would expect to be a good teammate, to support that person and continue to work hard every single day so when your moment comes when you step on that pitch you are able to go and deliver the performances that everyone knows you can.

“Testament to all the players. That’s what they have been doing so far.”