Nobody has played more games for Newcastle United under Eddie Howe than Fabian Schar.
Fabian Schar has hailed the Carabao Cup celebrations as a “different experience” to his previous Newcastle United struggles - and vowed to play for another three years.
Signed by Rafa Benitez in 2018, the Swiss international arrived on a £3million relegation release clause from Deportivo La Coruna. His formative years on Tyneside saw Schar produce an eye for the spectacular before falling out of favour under Steve Bruce.
One of Eddie Howe’s first bold decisions as manager was to reintroduce Schar to the starting line-up - and he has never looked back. For context, the 33-year-old has played 154 games under the Toon boss - more than anyone else since his appointment.
Fabian Schar on cup win and retirement plans
Speaking to NZZ, Schar opened up about the Carabao Cup celebrations while hinting at retiring on Tyneside. He said: “The cup win was incredible. I will never forget it. Everyone knew that the end of Newcastle’s trophy drought would be celebrated. But when it actually happened and I saw it for myself, it was a completely different experience.
“I let the moment sink in and realised that this isn’t an everyday occurrence. Experiencing this joy was very meaningful to me. I have been at Newcastle United since 2018 and feel an enormous connection to the city and the club. I wanted to give something back to everyone. That is why the relief after the final whistle in the game against Liverpool was so immense.
“When I extended my contract (earlier this year), I couldn’t imagine another club. I am a player who appreciates what I have. I would like to play football for another two or three years and so I am not thinking about retiring just yet.”
Fabian Schar grateful to Eddie Howe
The centre-back also hailed Howe for transforming his fortunes at St James’ Park. Schar added: “It is extremely important that I feel the manager’s affection and that I enjoy his trust. I felt that 100 per cent with Eddie Howe from day one.
“It has made me a better player over the past few years. He knows me very well, both as a player and as a person. He knows what I can offer a team. He makes that possible. The manager understands how to incorporate the individual strengths of each player into our game.
“For me, that is opening up the game, which he encourages. If I never scored a goal, he would tell me to stop. I have always been a dangerous player in front of goal. The attacking mindset is part of my game. I am more likely to look for a finish than a cross.”
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Eddie Howe hailed Fabian Schar
Howe praised Schar as the “heartbeat” of his team once he penned a one-year contract extension. He told the club website: “Fabian has been outstanding in my time at the club. As well as his performances on the pitch, he has shown a fantastic attitude in the group.
“He has been the heartbeat of the club’s season so far, and he’ll continue to be a key player for us as we strive to finish as high in the table as possible.”
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