Fabian Schar is set for an extended run back in the Newcastle first team following an injury to Dan Burn
Newcastle United’s Fabian Schar is one of only two fit first-team centre-backs(Image: CameraSport via Getty Images)
With Sven Botman already out, the last thing Eddie Howe wanted to see at the Stadium of Light on Sunday was Dan Burn being forced off with injury.
The Newcastle United defender tried to carry on after colliding with Sunderland’s Nordi Mukiele but was clearly in pain, and ended up in hospital on a day to forget for the Magpies.
The rib injury Burn incurred after the clash with the Black Cats defender will keep him out for several weeks at least, while Botman is yet to return after missing several games with a back problem.
It leaves United thin on the ground when it comes to centre-back back options – but it could be a potential game-changer for one man in particular.
Fabian Schar has already spoken about his frustration at being unable to win a regular place back in the side following a concussion earlier this season.
The Swiss star had barely put a foot wrong in the opening games of the campaign, but a blow to the head against Barcelona allowed Malick Thiaw to claim his spot, and the German took his opportunity with both hands.
Schar has had to be patient, with Howe preferring to go with Botman and then Burn as the left-sided partner for Thiaw, although now his hand will be forced.
It is now a huge opportunity for Schar, who will be given the perfect chance to show why he deserves a contract extension this summer.
The former Switzerland international will turn 34 later this month, but there is little sign of time catching up with him at this stage.
Continuing that excellent form at what is a crucial stage of the season, could well persuade sporting director Ross Wilson that the time is right to extend his stay at St James’ Park for at least another year.
It would certainly remove the need to sign more defenders in the summer, unless United decide to accelerate any plans in January due to the current injury issues.
Howe has already made his feelings clear on Schar and those looking to win a place in the side, saying: “Fabian is an outstanding player and has been for me for a long period of time.
“Very, very consistent and dependable and reliable. Every player that is not playing will be frustrated and will be anxious to get back into the team.
“All I can say to any of them is when they are picked, they need to perform and Fabian has done. He is training very well behind the scenes, he has been ultra professional so I have been really pleased.”
For his part, Schar has been itching to get his big chance, and now it has arrived, he will want to take it with both hands.
“It’s very difficult, it was a new situation which has never been the case in the last four years,” he said earlier this month. “A lot of things which were new and not easy.
“It’s something I know will happen because I’m getting older but I don’t want it to happen. I still feel I can bring a lot to the team.
“I just want to be on the pitch and do the same thing I’ve tried to do over the last seven years and leave my heart on the pitch.”
Newcastle’s injury issues have given him that chance and you can bet he won’t let anyone down.
