Sven Botman is expected to play for Newcastle United against Brentford this evening at St James’ Park (5:30pm kick-off).
Botman missed Newcastle’s previous 3-1 defeat at Brighton & Hove Albion due to an ankle injury sustained against Liverpool last month. However, following an international break to heal, the 23-year-old has returned to training and is expected to be fit for selection this weekend.
In response to a question on Botman’s availability against Brentford, Magpies head coach Eddie Howe remarked in his pre-match news conference: “Perhaps, he’s trained this week.”
The Dutch defender has already teased his return on social media, posting an Instagram photo of himself promoting the match at St James’ Park, implying his possible participation.
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Midfielder Elliot Anderson, who missed the Scotland squad during the international break, might potentially make a comeback.
However, Howe may have to make a late decision on Sandro Tonali, who missed Italy’s 2-1 Euro 2024 qualifier win over Ukraine owing to a thigh injury.
Howe revealed ahead of the game that the midfielder was questionable.
“He felt his thigh in training,” United manager Jose Mourinho admitted. “So he’s returned and had a scan; there’s a minor injury there, so we don’t think it’s serious or too long, but we’ll see if he’s available this weekend.”
Following the Brentford game, Newcastle will go to Tonali’s previous club AC Milan for their Champions League group stage opening at the San Siro on Tuesday.
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