Newcastle: Howe made ‘strange’ decision over £48m duo at St James’ Park | OneFootball

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·25 September 2022

Newcastle: Howe made ‘strange’ decision over £48m duo at St James’ Park

Article image:Newcastle: Howe made ‘strange’ decision over £48m duo at St James’ Park

It is ‘strange’ that Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has not started summer signing Sven Botman more, according to Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie.

The 22-year-old arrived to much fanfare after the Magpies saw off competition from European giants AC Milan to secure his signature, yet he has had to settle for a place on the bench on several occasions so far.


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What is the latest news involving Botman?

Botman penned a five-year contract back in July, becoming Newcastle’s third signing of the previous window following his £35 million switch from Ligue 1 outfit LOSC Lille.

The Netherlands international was initially targeted by manager Eddie Howe in January, although a deal proved too difficult to pull off, forcing him to turn his attention to alternative targets.

Consequently, Newcastle ended up signing Dan Burn from Brighton & Hove Albion for £13m during the winter as they looked for a quick fix to their defensive woes.

Article image:Newcastle: Howe made ‘strange’ decision over £48m duo at St James’ Park

And the 6 foot 7 giant proved to be an instant success on Tyneside, playing a pivotal part as Howe’s charges climbed up the Premier League standings, eventually finishing in 11th position.

So far this season, Burn has started six of Newcastle’s seven top-flight fixtures, filling in for Matt Targett at left-back when he’s been injured and then displacing Botman at centre-back upon his return to full fitness.

What has Downie said about Botman?

Downie has admitted that he was ‘surprised’ Burn got the nod over Botman last time out against Crystal Palace, especially given the fee Newcastle spent on the Dutchman.

In an interview with GiveMeSport, he said: “I am surprised. I was surprised that Burn started at the weekend, and Botman was on the bench.

“It’s strange that you’re spending that kind of money on a centre-back, and he’s a sub. I think they were always going to have that little problem with the two of them playing in the same position.”

How well have Burn and Botman been playing?

Newcastle have only leaked seven goals in their opening seven Premier League games of 2022/23, and both Burn and Botman have played their part in that impressive record.

As per WhoScored, Burn has won 2.3 aerial duels, while averaging 1.7 tackles, 1.1 interceptions, 3.9 clearances, and 0.4 blocks per league game.

Meanwhile, Botman, who has started just four games this season, has won two aerial duels and has averaged 0.4 tackles, 0.8 interceptions, 2.6 clearances, and 0.4 blocks, highlighting why Howe has kept faith in the more experienced Burn.

Only time will tell if Newcastle are able to keep both players happy in the long-term, but it’s surely a nice problem for Howe to have.

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