Howe 'devastated' for Hall after season-ending injury | OneFootball

The Magpies take on West Ham United at the London Stadium on Monday (kick-off 8pm GMT) in their final Premier League outing before the Carabao Cup final against Liverpool at Wembley a week on Sunday.

Earlier this week, it was confirmed defender Hall would miss the remainder of the campaign after suffering a foot injury in last week's defeat at Liverpool, while at his pre-match media briefing on Friday morning head coach Howe confirmed that Sven Botman would also require surgery on a knee problem - but is hopeful the Dutch stopper will be able to return before the end of 2024/25.

The United boss was speaking ahead of the game against Graham Potter's men - a contest he says is (...). Here are some of the main talking points from Howe's latest media briefing:

On Hall's injury...

"We're really disappointed for Lewis. We are devastated for him. He had so much to look forward to.

"He had the cup final and then internationals coming up, he was in really good form. It is a big blow for him and for us."

On Botman...

"With Sven, we have been trying to get him back to full fitness. He was very close to the Brighton game but the day before he felt something again in his knee. This week he has had the same discomfort, so it looks like he will have to have an operation.

"He needs a small operation to clear out some fluid and then he should be fine again... We hope he should be back in about eight weeks."

On a testing week...

"It has been one of those weeks that challenges you. In the job that I am in, you need to have a level head, clear thinking and put it into perspective.

"We still have a very strong squad, a very strong team. We are going to miss the players that we are going to lose and that’s a big disappointment, but it is always someone else’s opportunity, and we have to look at it that way."

On facing the Hammers...

"It is a huge game for us - that can’t be lost. We can’t lose the focus on the Premier League.

"The focus has been very good from the players this week. I see a determination to do well in the game. It's always a tough place to go, but we are looking forward to the challenge."

On Joelinton's return to the Brazil squad...

"It's huge news for him. I'm delighted for Joe.

"He is such a passionate guy. One of highs of Sunday was to see him returning to his best way, running, chasing, winning balls, being a real enforcer for us in that midfield. It is testament to his character that he is back in the Brazil squad."

On remaining united...

"We still have everything to play for. All those players coming into the team will feel like they can make the difference.

"You have to be ready to perform, to play. We have been working hard with the players behind the scenes so that everyone can play their part successfully in this period."