Fresh off reaching another Carabao Cup final under Eddie Howe, there’s even more good news coming the way of Newcastle fans today.

Joelinton is facing a “weeks not months” on the sidelines with a knee problem, Callum Wilson is back after his cameo on Wednesday and it remains to be seen when Harvey Barnes will return from a thigh problem.

However, there is an update to share on Sven Botman and it looks to be a positive one after he was forced off in our 2-0 win over Arsenal.

Howe handed Botman boost

According to Craig Hope at The Mail, Sven Botman’s latest knee problem is nothing serious and won’t keep him out long.

He reports that Botman, fresh off a 10 month absence from first team football and a few stellar defensive performances, has avoided aggravating his previous knee problem after his worrying withdrawal on Wednesday night.

The Dutchman is expected to be rested for Saturday’s FA Cup clash against Birmingham, but he should return in time for our league trip to Man City next weekend, where he’ll have Erling Haaland to mark after bullying Kai Havertz two days ago.

Botman managed 80 minutes in the midweek win over Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal before Howe was forced to bring the 25-year-old off over what looked like an issue with his knee.

Speaking after the win, Howe expressed his concerns. “I think it was a knee issue, and we hope it’s okay, he’s such an important player. I was very, very pleased with his performance, but of course we need to check the injury and check he’s okay.”

Krafth set for Birmingham return?

Wednesday’s win over Arsenal saw a brief cameo for Emil Krafth, who hasn’t long returned to the squad after recovering from a broken collarbone.

It’ll no doubt be a welcome sight for Howe and co, with Lloyd Kelly’s recent loan departure and Botman’s need for rest leaving the Magpies with only a handful of defensive options to call upon.

It’s likely that Krafth will take Botman’s place in the team for the away trip to St Andrews, where one would likely pair the Swede with Dan Burn in the heart of the Toon defence against their League One opponents.