- Newcastle United defender expected to be fit to face against Crystal Palace
- Sven Botman to take precautionary measure at Selhurst Park
- Eddie Howe also boosted by Lewis Miley return
Newcastle United have released a new image of defender Sven Botman in training on social media ahead of making the trip down to Crystal Palace on Sunday afternoon.
The 26-year-old has had an injury-plagued season and it had been feared that another period on the sidelines could be coming following a coming together with Sunderland striker Brian Brobbey last time out.
Botman collided with his compatriot in the derby at St James’ Park and was confirmed to have sustained a facial fracture as a result. The injury sounded serious but it is not expected to keep the player out of any games.
The centre-back missed the key run of festive fixtures with a hamstring injury but had been handed starts against both Chelsea and Sunderland. It had been reported on Friday that Botman’s eligibility to play would come with the need to wear a face mask.
Newcastle United share Sven Botman image
In a photo shared by the club on Saturday, Botman could now be seen sporting the protective equipment. It’s not the first time that the player has worn a similar mask, adopting the nickname ‘Sven Batman’.
Fans online flocked to the comments on Instagram to share images of the iconic cartoon character. One wrote: “Howay Batman. Take us to get a European place.”
Another joked: “Just needs to rock up with his Batmobile instead of Rolls Royce the morra.”
Howe will be delighted that the face mask exists and means he can call upon Botman. Speaking about the player in January, when he returned from a previous injury, the Magpies boss said: “He’s been such a big presence in our backline when he’s been fit.
Eddie Howe: Botman ‘one of best defenders in Premier League’
“We’ve missed him for a long period of time, but for me, when he is fit, he’s one of the best defenders in the Premier League. He’s a great lad, a real towering presence and very good with the ball. He’s been a vital signing for us.
“He’s not the most patient person, generally. He really wants to play, and he wants to win. He’s got a very strong personality, but I admire that in him.
“Like any player when he’s been injured and the length of time that he’s been out, I think he’s got frustrated in certain moments, but he handled himself always with class – and now he’s back. We’re delighted to have him.”
In other news, Liverpool confirm Newcastle United transfer target will leave this summer.
