Key Points
- According to the ex-Newcastle defender John Anderson, Newcastle manager Matthias Jaissle is likely to face a selection conundrum with center-back Sven Botman.
- Sven Botman has endured a poor performance along with teammate Malick Thiaw in Newcastle’s 4-1 loss in their away game to Leeds United.
- John Anderson highlighted the problem with Botman, who regularly loses possession when trying to build from the back, a problem which arose during the pre-season period.
- Ex-defender Anderson revealed that Everton’s forward, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, was able to overpower both Botman and Thiaw in the game.
- Dan Burn is absent from the squad and according to John Anderson, the experienced defender Fabian Schär is the possible choice for starting next weekend’s game.
- Anderson stood up for the 20-year-old midfielder Lewis Miley and defended him against criticism recently leveled at him.
Newcastle upon Tyne (Newcastle Times) September 17, 2026 – Newcastle United manager Matthias Jaissle faces an impending tactical dilemma over whether to drop central defender Sven Botman following a dismal defensive performance against Leeds United, according to former Magpies defender John Anderson. Speaking in an interview on BBC Radio Newcastle, Anderson highlighted persistent flaws in Botman’s game—most notably his insistence on playing out from the back under pressure and a susceptibility to physical center-forwards—after Newcastle crashed to a 4–1 defeat at Elland Road.
What Caused Sven Botman’s Struggles Against Leeds United?
Newcastle United’s defensive line crumbled under sustained pressure from Leeds United on Monday evening, with the pairing of Sven Botman and summer recruit Malick Thiaw failing to contain the opposition’s attack. Botman, who joined Newcastle with significant expectations, found himself repeatedly caught out in dangerous areas when attempting to initiate attacks from deep positions.
As reported by BBC Sport journalist Matthew Howarth on BBC Radio Newcastle, former Newcastle defender John Anderson stated that
“there was a concern about Botman coming into the season because he had a really poor pre-season”
and added that
“things didn’t go well for him.”
While Anderson acknowledged that Botman showed promising form earlier in the campaign—noting that
“he did well against Liverpool and Spurs”
he stressed that recurring mistakes remain a core issue. According to Anderson,
“the thing about Botman is he wants to play out from the back all the time and yet again [against Leeds] he is playing out and gives it away.”
In addition to technical errors in possession, Newcastle’s central defenders struggled with the physical demands of the match. Leeds forward Dominic Calvert-Lewin proved a persistent thorn in the side of the visitors’ backline. Addressing the aerial and physical battle, Anderson remarked:
“I thought him and Thiaw got bullied by Calvert-Lewin. He pushed and shoved them and they didn’t push and shove back.”
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How Could Matthias Jaissle Reshape the Newcastle Defense?
The heavy defeat at Leeds has intensified scrutiny on Matthias Jaissle’s tactical structure and personnel selections ahead of the team’s next fixture. Jaissle, who assumed management duties at St James’ Park with a emphasis on fluid possession and high defensive lines, must now balance his tactical principles with defensive stability.
With main stay defender Dan Burn currently unavailable for selection, Jaissle’s choices in central defense are limited but clear. As reported by BBC Sport journalist Matthew Howarth on BBC Radio Newcastle, John Anderson stated that
“I think Jaissle has got a decision to make”
regarding his starting line-up. Anderson suggested an immediate alternative, noting:
“He doesn’t have Dan Burn available but he could play [Fabian] Schär there. I think he will have a decision to make at the weekend.”
Swiss international Fabian Schär brings substantial experience and composure to the backline, characteristics that were visibly lacking during Monday’s defeat. Introducing Schär alongside either Thiaw or Botman could provide the aerial strength and veteran authority needed to stabilize a back four that conceded four goals in a single outing.
What Options Exist in the Squad?
- Option 1: Retain Botman and Thiaw – Maintain continuity to allow the young partnership to build understanding, despite recent errors.
- Option 2: Introduce Fabian Schär – Replace Botman or Thiaw with Schär to inject experience, ball distribution, and physical presence.
- Option 3: Tactical System Shift – Transition to a three-at-the-back formation once Dan Burn returns to provide greater structural cover.
Is Criticism of Young Midfielder Lewis Miley Unwarranted?
While defensive issues dominated the post-match discussion, 20-year-old midfielder Lewis Miley has also faced scrutiny from sections of the supporter base following recent midfield performances. The academy graduate has been thrust into a prominent role within Newcastle’s senior squad over the past season.
However, John Anderson mounted a firm defense of the youngster, urging fans and commentators to maintain realistic expectations regarding his ongoing development. As reported by BBC Sport journalist Matthew Howarth on BBC Radio Newcastle, Anderson stated that
“I think the criticism of Miley is a bit harsh.”
Elaborating on the midfielder’s potential and technical traits, Anderson remarked:
“Miley will develop into a very good player. He is a good player as it is. He is definitely not the quickest but his awareness of people around him is good and he is still growing and filling out his body.”
Miley’s spatial awareness and decision-making on the ball have drawn praise from coaches, but his physical adaptation to the pace of top-flight football remains an ongoing process. Newcastle’s coaching staff continue to view him as a long-term fixture in the club’s midfield rebuilding plans.
