Newcastle United have been dealt another massive blow ahead of their Carabao Cup Final clash against Liverpool, as experienced defender Sven Botman is set to miss the showpiece due to injury.
The Dutch center-back only recently returned from a lengthy ACL absence, however, the Mail‘s Craig Hope reports that Botman will require surgery on a knee problem, ruling him out of English football first silverware battle of the season.
Botman’s loss is coming with the League Cup Final about 10 days away, with the Magpies now sure to be without three key players – winger Anthony Gordon is unavailable due to suspension, while defender Lewis Hall is out for the remainder of the campaign.
Jamaal Lascelles is also out of contention for the Final, while Alexander Isak and Kieran Trippier have both battling fitness issues.
Newcastle are seeking to end their long trophy drought, following their last piece of major silverware in the FA Cup 70 years ago.