According to The Telegraph, Newcastle believe they have a player with the potential to become ‘one of the world’s best’ centre-backs in Sven Botman.
However, Luke Edwards has revealed the ‘one weakness’ Toon scouts picked up on during trips to watch the 22-year-old in action.
It’s reported that Steve Nickson – the club’s head of recruitment – felt Botman sometimes struggled against ‘small, nippy strikers’ who dragged him in tight, then used their pace and mobility to burst clear of him.
It must be said that the Dutchman is said to be ‘deceptively quick’ over long distances, suggesting he can really motor once he gets going, however it will be interesting to see how the big man copes against diminutive forwards with a real burst of speed.
This clip below highlights this perfectly, with him beaten by a nippy forward after being dragged out wide:
Minor weak points aside, the same report goes on to discuss some of the impressive traits Nickson picked up on while watching him in France.
It’s believed we were impressed by how few mistakes he makes, also picking up on his ‘mental strength’ and composure – to things that aren’t all that common in commanding young centre-backs.
His imposing frame, dominance in the air and ability on the ball is well documented, however it’s interesting that The Telegraph also highlight how two-footed he is, with the left-sided defender not afraid to use his right peg.
With this in mind, it’s no wonder Eddie Howe is believed to be ‘open’ to the idea of starting two left-footed centre-backs next season, suggesting the 6ft 5′ giant could easily play on the right side if needed.
Why on earth do you have to 1. Be negative about a signing we beat off AC Milan to sign & 2. As a newcastle fan, why on earth would you publish something that could potentially give opposition an advantage?
What an absolute balloon
Michael(Quote)
Any other tips you’d like to give the opposition on how to beat us Olly?
BykerBill(Quote)
1 it was supposedly in the telegraph so I guess the opposition can figure it out for themselves.
2 every player has strengths and weaknesses, especially younger ones who are still developing. Training will try to minimise weaknesses. Team set up also helps, players off set each others abilities so, in this example, the full back was out of position which again would be a training opportunity.
Barry Hutton(Quote)
Olly – I do hope you had a little chuckle to yourself when you read this feedback.
So some of your reads actually believe that our opponents read your blog as part of their pre match scouting reports ???
I can just imagine Peps team talk – right lads here’s how Olly reckons we play Botman… ?
And they call YOU the balloon ????.
Sharpy17(Quote)
?
Olly Hawkins(Quote)