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Chris Knight

Newcastle United star Sven Botman makes Erik ten Hag admission after surprise Ajax decision

Sven Botman insists he has nothing to prove to former boss Erik ten Hag as he prepares to make his competitive bow for Newcastle United. The summer signing is expected to start on Saturday as Eddie Howe's side begin their campaign against Nottingham Forest.

Botman was the subject of interest from the Magpies in January, but the former Ligue 1 champions were unwilling to part with the defender in the mid-season window. AC Milan were also interested in the 22-year-old's signature, but Eddie Howe ultimately landed his top defensive target after lengthy negotiations.

The Netherlands youth international has already impressed during his short stint in black-and-white so far, and will likely partner either Dan Burn or Fabian Schar this weekend. Botman has forged a reputation as one of the most promising defenders in Europe, despite never making the senior breakthrough with Ajax.

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