Lee Ryder was left incredibly impressed by Newcastle United’s summer signing Sven Botman after his performance against Athletic Bilbao on Saturday.
The Magpies entered the break one goal to the good, courtesy of Callum Wilson’s effort in the opening stages. And Eddie Howe’s men made it two wins in less than 24 hours as they ended the game as 2-1 victors.
But it was Botman who Ryder was left impressed with at half-time, saying in his ratings as he awarded Botman with an 8/10 for his first half display: “Unflappable home debut. Looks like he’s been playing here for years.”
And he was just as impressed with the Dutchman’s display in the second 45: “Unflappable stuff for the mostpart. Developed decent understanding with Lascelles.”
It seems as though the defender has hit the ground running and slot straight into Howe’s side. If he can take his pre-season form into the Premier League campaign, too, then the Magpies will have themselves a very solid campaign.
In what is a new era at St. James’ Park, Newcastle will hope to reach greater heights in the coming season. And, as that new era continues, given Botman’s young age of 22, he will likely play a huge part.
TIF Thoughts on Sven Botman…
Last season, the defender would have been left disappointed with his and Lille’s performance after failing to defend their Ligue 1 title. He has the chance at Newcastle to return to his best form, however, and prove just why Howe wanted him at the club for years to come.
With the Premier League kicking off in under a week, Newcastle will be looking to make the last touches, before potentially causing a few upsets. They will not want to be near the bottom half this time around. Such is their status as one of the richest clubs in the world, they’ll be aiming for far higher things.
But for Botman, with Dan Burn and Fabian Schar forming an impressive partnership last season, this will certainly be the start to the summer he will have wanted as he looks to prove his worth to Howe ahead of next weekend.