You would understand if Fabian Schar was slightly bitter towards Newcastle United teammate Malick Thiaw.
The 24-year-old arrived from AC Milan during the summer, and has quickly established himself as a starter at St James’ Park. That has been at Fabian Schar’s expense, with the veteran centre-back dropping to the bench to accommodate the summer signing.
That changed on Wednesday night, with Schar and Malick Thiaw starting together in Newcastle United’s win over Tottenham Hotspur in the Carabao Cup. They were excellent alongside each other, helping the Magpies keep their eighth clean sheet of the season.
Usual service will likely resume on Sunday when the Magpies face West Ham, with Sven Botman expected to return to the starting XI in place of Schar. That feels harsh given how well he played against Spurs, but there is no doubt that Botman and Thiaw is Newcastle’s best centre-back pairing right now.
Malick Thiaw reacts after tackling Richarlison during Newcastle United's Carabao Cup win over Tottenham Hotspur.
Photo by Alex Dodd – CameraSport via Getty Images
Fabian Schar seriously impressed by ‘top player’ Malick Thiaw
There is no resentment from Schar, who has spoken glowingly about Malick Thiaw and his start to life at St James’ Park following his £34million arrival.
Speaking to Newcastle United’s official website, Schar was asked to give his verdict on the man who has taken his place in the starting XI.
“He’s very good,” he said.
“He’s settled in very well, coming to a new country and a new league is not always easy. He’s done really well.
“He adds a lot to the team. He’s very solid. Very creative. Good on the ball. He’s still young. He brings everything for being a top player.
MORE NEWCASTLE STORIES
“We are very happy to have him in the team.”
Malick Thiaw shows off new trait in Newcastle United win
For the first time in his Newcastle United career, Thiaw started as the left-sided centre-back as opposed to the right in the absence of Sven Botman.
It was an interesting decision by Eddie Howe, given the fact that Schar has proven to be incredibly comfortable on his weaker side.
It turns out that Thiaw is just as comfortable on the left as well, proving yet again why he was such a smart signing. Newcastle have struck gold on Thiaw, who has already justified the club’s decision to sign him as Schar’s long-term successor.