Newcastle to welcome back Fabian Schar after hamstring scare

By SABC Sport
20th November 2023

Newcastle defender Fabian Schar is back in full training with Switzerland after recovering from a hamstring injury.

Having sat out Switzerland's Euro 2024 qualifier against Israel and being an unused substitute in the draw against Kosovo, Schar's participation in the final Group I game, which will determine Switzerland's position, is yet to be determined.

Although Switzerland needs a victory against Romania to secure the top spot, the decision to include Schar in the squad for Saturday's match against Chelsea remains uncertain.

Nevertheless, the confirmation from the Swiss FA, reported by Chronicle Live, that Schar is back in "normal training" is a significant boost for Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe.

With defensive concerns due to injuries to players like Sven Botman, and Dan Burn and Matt Targett sidelined until 2024, Schar's potential return to the back four is crucial for Howe ahead of the important clash with Chelsea.

Despite the ongoing international break, communication between Newcastle and Switzerland's backroom staff has been maintained.

Eddie Howe, who anxiously watched the injury unfold at the Vitality Stadium, can now breathe a sigh of relief as Schar has been declared fit for the upcoming weekend fixture.

The 31-year-old centre-back has been a vital player for Howe, making 19 appearances and scoring once, notably in the 4-1 victory against Paris St-Germain earlier in the season.