Newcastle United defender Sven Botman has decided not to join the Netherlands U21 camp for the ongoing international break.
Jong Oranje head coach Erwin van de Looi had included the defender in his squad to face Belgium U21 and Romania U21 later this month.
The centre-back, who left Lille for Newcastle in the summer, has communicated to Van de Looi his desire to be left out of the Netherlands U21 squad. This has been confirmed by the country’s football association.
‘Sven Botman (Newcastle United FC) does not join the Dutch Juniors this international period. Botman has indicated to Jong Oranje coach Erwin van de Looi that he wants to focus on his club during the international break in September and therefore not make himself available,’ a statement read on their official website.
Newcastle were successful in overcoming AC Milan to secure the Dutchman’s services in the last window, after failing to sign him in January.
Botman made his debut for the Magpies when he came off the bench in their 2-0 win over Nottingham Forest. Since then, he has made four league starts this season.
