Eddie Howe admits he is relishing the prospect of his four central defenders battling it out for a place in the heart of Newcastle United's backline. The Magpies boss opted for a pairing of Dan Burn and Fabian Schar in the 2-0 win over Nottingham Forest on Saturday as new signing Sven Botman settled for a spot on the bench.
Newcastle captain Jamaal Lascelles was also named among the substitutes before pulling out of contention during the warm-up with a thigh issue. Botman played a matter of minutes, replacing Bruno Guimaraes in stoppage time.
Quizzed about his options at the back and the clamour among fans for Botman to start, Howe admitted he was looking forward to the Dutchman battling it out to try and wrestle a centre-back spot from one of his fellow team-mates.
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“They (Schar and Burn) were excellent second half of last season together with Jamaal (Lascelles), who more than played his part. All three centre-backs, for me, were excellent, but we needed more strength in depth," Howe said.
"We couldn’t rely this season on three. Obviously, Fede Fernandez has had quite a few injury problems. We felt it was a position we needed to strengthen. Sven was a long-term target for us. We were delighted to sign him.
"I think this period, however long it is before he gets his opportunity to start, will do him the world of good. He’ll get to know the league, he’ll get to know the speed. I’ve got no doubts about him as a player. He’ll be a top player for this football club in my opinion.
"But there’s real competition for places. Dan and Fabian and Jamaal, they’re not going to give their shirts us easily. That’s a battle I’ll love to see unfold, and knowing I’ve got that quality certainly bodes well for the season.”
Botman's late introduction at St. James' Park saw his every touch cheered by home supporters, as he managed to make a few short, simple passes in the closing stages. Like Bruno Guimaraes, he may have to be patient for his chance in the first-team but looks set to be a very popular player on Tyneside.
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