West Ham United will face a European adversary without their first-choice center-back when they go up the A1 next weekend.

Newcastle United reported yesterday that Sven Botman damaged his ACL during their 2-0 FA Cup loss to Manchester City. Earlier this season, the Dutchman unintentionally played against AC Milan and Sheffield United while suffering a knee ligament damage.

That setback sidelined him for three months since he chose not to have surgery, but his form plummeted after returning to the squad. Botman was a member of a Newcastle team that scored 25 goals in their last ten Premier League games.

The 24-year-old hobbled off in the final stages at the Etihad last Saturday and will go under the knife, ruling him out for up to nine months. In reserve, the Magpies will either shift Dan Burn to centre-back alongside Fabian Schar or call on club captain Jamaal Lascelles.

The news gives West Ham a significant boost ahead of their trip to St James’ Park, as well as their European prospects. Newcastle already had a debilitating absentee list, and Botman’s injury is the latest blow.

Eddie Howe’s chances of repeating last season’s Champions League heroics have been hampered by injuries, with headline signing Sandro Tonali also sidelined for violating betting restrictions. Newcastle currently behind the Hammers by four points despite playing one fewer game.

Next weekend’s game on Tyneside can be considered as a six-pointer in the battle for European football. Brighton and Wolverhampton Wanderers also travel to Liverpool and Aston Villa, emphasizing the importance of the match.