Newcastle United midfielder Sean Longstaff has said that fellow teammate Sven Botman “can do everything” as his return from injury nears, explaining why the defender could play for any club in the world.
The Dutchman has been missing from the Magpies starting XI since March after sustaining an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in last seasons FA Cup quarter-final against Manchester City.
The 24-year-old is due to return to action in December much to the delight of Newcastle fans and head coach Eddie Howe. His side have kept just two clean sheets in the Premier League this season.
Speaking on The Rest is Football podcast alongside Gary Lineker and former Magpie Alan Shearer, Longstaff said: “He (Botman) is lightning quick, he’s strong, but he’s unbelievable on the ball as well.
“As the modern centre-back, he can do everything. That’s why, for me, he could go and play for the top teams tomorrow, and I think the whole country or the whole world would see how good he is. He’s coming back from an ACL, so I don’t want to put too much pressure on him coming back.
“I think Alex (Isak) and Sven are the two that, when I look at them, I think they could go and play for the top teams in the world tomorrow. Not that the others (Bruno and Tonali) couldn’t, but I just think there’s something about them two which is special.”
Howe is also without fellow centre-back Jamaal Lascelles who suffered a similar injury to Botman. Like the Dutchman, he is due to return before the end of the year.
It would be more exciting if he was an upgrade on a problem position such as RW. As it is, assuming he’s the player we saw in 2022-23, botman is a straight swap for burn who has been probably the most consistent player this season.
So this is not really addressing the most pressing problems which are lack of goals and MF imbalance
Jonesy(Quote)
We have to hope that Sven comes back even stronger, faster and fitter than he was before. He is one hell of a defender when he is playing at his peak.
It would also allow Big Dan to cover at left back if Hall was struggling for form or fitness.
I agree though the right wing situation has to be resolved NOW as it is the only real weak link in the team. I’d go for the solid performances, goal return and skill of Mbuemo who could also play centrally when our excellent but ‘made of glass’ main strikers are unavailable, and forget petulant Sane (who thinks he’s too good for us anyway) and the ‘in and out’ Elanga.
Time also to peddle Longstaff (Miley back), Dubravka (Odysseus is not bad), Lascelles, Targett and Gillespie (why is he here?) to bring in a few bob to help his transfer. Job’s a good ‘un for the winter window.
Toonarden(Quote)
When they say he can do everything, he’s been pretty good at sitting on the sidelines for the last 28 weeks.
BykerBill(Quote)
Byker Bill:-
They are all great when they play (well some of them are).
But a lot pick up their telephone number wages for doing virtually nothing, no wonder they are always smiling like messers Wilson & Almiron and don’t want to leave.
Joseph(Quote)
Botman is a real gem! He’s not only a good player but also a very brave one. With this spirit, Newcastle will go far!
Run 3(Quote)
Can we please, please, please have some of this happiness on the pitch lads?
sprunki retake(Quote)