Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has issued an injury update ahead of Wednesday’s Carabao Cup clash with Tottenham Hotspur, confirming that defender Sven Botman faces a late fitness test after suffering a nasty head wound during the win over Fulham.
Botman was forced off early in the second half of that game after sustaining a deep cut that required staples but, crucially, did not suffer a concussion. Howe said the Dutch defender remains in contention to feature against Spurs if he passes a medical assessment.
The Magpies are preparing to defend their Carabao Cup crown, but with a packed fixture list and several players carrying knocks, Howe is expected to rotate heavily for the trip to north London.
Sven Botman to face late fitness test
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Howe explained that Botman’s availability would depend on how well he responds to treatment in the coming days.
“Sven has no concussion, it was a cut, a bad cut, which he had stapled together. He didn’t train yesterday, but we will see how he is today.” — Eddie Howe, via press conference
The manager added that Lewis Hall is the closest of the injured group to returning, but the Tottenham match will come too soon. Tino Livramento, Yoane Wissa, and Harrison Ashby all remain unavailable.
“Lewis [Hall] is the closest to coming back out of those injured, but this game will come too quickly for him. Tino is still on track — we are looking at the Manchester City game for when he can be available for.” — Eddie Howe
Rotation expected as Newcastle eye balance
Howe also confirmed that several fringe players would be given a chance to impress, emphasising the importance of maintaining squad rhythm while protecting regular starters.
That could mean starts for Aaron Ramsdale, Fabian Schär, Emil Krafth, and Joe Willock, while Anthony Elanga is expected to feature after a quiet start to the campaign. Summer signing Nick Woltemade — who has impressed early in his Newcastle career — could be rested to allow William Osula a rare opportunity up front.
“It is important for this game to make the right decision; we want to progress. The competition means a lot to us, we are current holders, we don’t want to give that up easily. However, I have a squad, I need to try and get the balance right — there are players who need the football.” — Eddie Howe
Newcastle’s injury situation ahead of Tottenham
| Player | Injury / Status | Expected Return |
|---|---|---|
| Sven Botman | Head cut (fitness test) | To be assessed |
| Lewis Hall | Muscle strain | Early November |
| Tino Livramento | Hamstring | vs Manchester City |
| Harrison Ashby | Foot injury | Late November |
| Yoane Wissa | Groin issue | Unknown |
source: club medical report – 28 October 2025
Newcastle’s injury situation has been a concern this season, with key defenders missing at various stages. However, Howe’s careful rotation has kept the team competitive across competitions.
Our View
In our view, Howe’s measured approach makes sense given Newcastle’s injury list and congested fixture schedule. With Tottenham in good form and City looming at the weekend, resting key players while keeping others sharp is the right balance. The Carabao Cup remains important for morale, but squad management takes priority.
Sven Botman’s availability will be crucial — his presence brings defensive stability and leadership. If he’s not risked, Emil Krafth or a rotated back line could face a tough test against Spurs’ pace in attack.
Key Insights
- Sven Botman to face a late fitness test after a head cut vs Fulham.
- Lewis Hall is close to returning but won’t feature against Spurs.
- Livramento, Wissa, and Ashby remain out.
- Howe plans rotation, with fringe players like Krafth and Willock likely to start.
- Newcastle aim to defend their Carabao Cup title while balancing fitness.
What’s Next
Newcastle face Tottenham in the Carabao Cup fourth round on 29 October 2025 before returning to Premier League action against Manchester City on 2 November. Howe’s squad rotation strategy will be key to maintaining momentum across both fronts.
👉 Should Eddie Howe risk Sven Botman for Tottenham, or rest him ahead of Manchester City?
0 Comments
First read message
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *