For all of the impressive signings Newcastle United have made since PIF’s takeover, players inherited from the previous regime continue to shine.
Indeed, part of what has made Eddie Howe’s tenure at Newcastle so enjoyable has been the improvements he’s yielded from the players left over from the Rafa Benitez and Steve Bruce years.
The likes of Joelinton and Miguel Almiron have both been highlighted as leading examples of this, though they are far from alone in that.
Fabian Schar, after all, continues to do the business.
A £3m signing in 2018, the 32-year-old was again praised for his performance against Wolves on Saturday by Howe.
In more comments after the game, the Newcastle boss spoke of a particular quality.
Fabian Schar: Eddie Howe hails Newcastle star
Reflecting on Schar’s passing range, having teed up Anthony Gordon to help create the first goal with a fine ball before finding Tino Livramento for the third at St James’ Park with a Hollywood pass, Howe suggested not many other defenders in the game were capable of such things.
“He reads the game really well, and the interceptions that he makes is second to none,” said Howe to The Northern Echo.
“But he would probably tell you that his biggest strengths are on the ball, and he can see things and execute things that I don’t see many other centre-halves capable of doing. That’s why he’s so important to us.”
Fabian Schar: What a signing for Newcastle
Yes, Schar hasn’t been perfect for Newcastle this season but he is far from alone in that. A resolute defender at times and equally as capable of picking opposition defences apart with his passing range, the Swiss really does have it all.
It’s just a shame he’s not ten years younger. Replacing him long-term will not be easy, even if he’s hardly showing many signs of slowing down just yet.
One of the key players of the Howe era, it’s difficult to imagine a Newcastle United side without him.
Thankfully, his signing of a new contract earlier this season would suggest he remains in Howe’s plans for now.
Certainly, that can only be a good thing for Newcastle.
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