Newcastle: Howe facing ‘real decision’ over £35m ‘beast’ at St James’ Park

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has a ‘real decision’ on his hands regarding the role of summer signing Sven Botman, with the Dutchman yet to establish himself in the starting XI at St. James’ Park, according to Keith Downie.

Howe oversaw a busy few months of transfer business in the North East, with over £120 million spent on recruits, but one of his new signings may be questioning his role.

The 22-year-old signed a five-year deal after the Magpies struck a £35 million agreement with Lille to bolster the club’s defensive options.

Botman described the move as ‘the best day’ of his life after it was publicly announced on the club’s official website, adding that he was ‘very excited’ about the new chapter.

But the 12-cap Netherlands under-21 international has been a sporadic member of Howe’s starting XI, being picked to start just four of the club’s seven top-flight matches this season.

A cameo against Nottingham Forest on the opening weekend is Botman’s only other Premier League appearance so far.

He was left on the bench for Newcastle’s latest outing at home to Bournemouth with Howe suggesting the experience of Dan Burn appealed to him more.

Downie believes that Howe is facing a big decision regarding Botman, with the Dutchman’s morale now a key factor.

The Sky Sports reporter says the manager needs to ensure that his summer signing is ready for action and does not lose confidence.

Downie told GIVEMESPORT: “He’s going to have a real decision on his hands moving forward. I mean, what you don’t want is someone like Sven Botman’s head going down because he’s not playing. You need to make sure he’s ready.”

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