Huge blow for Newcastle! Magpies' season takes another bad turn as Sven Botman suffers dreaded ACL injury - faces surgery & nine months out

The centre-back was forced off in the late stages of the Magpies' 2-0 defeat to against Manchester City in the FA Cup quarter-finals on Saturday. He has since been diagnosed with an injury to his anterior cruciate ligament and faces up to nine months out after he undergoes surgery next week.

An update from the club read: "Newcastle United defender Sven Botman will undergo surgery next week after suffering a knee injury against Manchester City.

"Following further assessment, a scan has confirmed that he sustained an injury to his ACL during Saturday's match and he is expected to return to action within six-to-nine months.

"The Dutch centre-back initially sustained a knee injury in September 2023 and elected for a non-surgical rehabilitation plan - a decision which saw him return to action in December.

"Everyone at Newcastle United wishes Sven a full and speedy recovery."

The 24-year-old Netherlands international has been a mainstay in Eddie Howe's team this season, making 22 appearances in all competitions. He was previously ruled out with a knee injury that sidelined him from late-September until December.

The absence of a key figure comes as a big blow to Newcastle as they look to get back into the fight for a place in European football next term. Howe's side sit 10th in the table and take on West Ham in their next match on March 30.