Speaking to the media following yesterday’s 4-0 win over Crystal Palace, Eddie Howe has reacted to the performance and revealed that Sven Botman is still a “couple of weeks” away from returning.
The Dutchman hasn’t featured since our 8-0 win over Sheffield United, missing the past month and our last five games with a knee injury. It was hoped he’d be back soon after making good progress over the international break, but he’s “a little further back” and is yet to train.
In better news, Joe Willock is back on the grass but “needs a bit more” before he’ll play again. The boss praised our clinical display against the Eagles, feeling our early goal was key and hailing Jacob Murphy for his man of the match display.
He also paid tribute to Newcastle fans after the game, thanking supporters for showing so much love to Sandro Tonali before, during and after the game, with the Italian visibly emotional as he led our lap of the pitch at full-time.
Howe on Joe Willock and Sven Botman:
“Joe has trained but he needs a bit more and possibly a game before playing again.
“Sven’s a little further back and we haven’t seen him in training yet.
“We’re hoping to increase his load but he won’t be around for a couple of weeks.”
Howe on 4-0 win over Crystal Palace:
“Really pleased with the players. Palace are a difficult team to score against but, thankfully, we got the early one.
“It was a really good display, especially in the first half. Some really nice passages of play and second half it was a case of just managing the game.”
Howe on Jacob Murphy:
“He was excellent and did a very good job with Sean (Longstaff) and Kieran (Trippier) alongsie him. He was a constant threat in behind and that first goal was huge in the match.
“He’s a big player. He was huge for us last year. He picked up a couple of injuries in pre-season.
“Huge contribution today when we needed it. He’s a very reliable player and a great professional, so he’s a huge part of our squad.”
Howe on Sandro Tonali:
