Fabian Schar on Rafa Benitez, playing at St James's Park '“ and Newcastle's '˜crazy' fans

The defender yesterday joined the club from Deportivo La Coruna in a £3million deal.

Schar was signed as a replacement for Chancel Mbemba, who was sold to Porto this week.

The 26-year-old – who went to the World Cup with Switzerland – was sold on a move after speaking with United manager Benitez.

Asked if it was an easy decision, Schar said: “Yes, I had some good words with the Mister (Benitez).

“I feel his confidence in me, and that’s important.

“Of course, the club is really big, for me. It has a big name.

“It’s a brilliant chance for me. I had nothing to think about.”

Schar, United’s fourth summer signing, is keen to learn from Benitez.

“It’s one of the main reasons, of course,” he said.

“I had a really good feeling, and know what he’s expecting from me.

“When you hear about the club, it’s brilliant. I’m really happy.”

Schar, a ball-playing defender, believes he has the attributes needed to succeed in the Premier League.

“I think I’m not like a typical defender who only defends,” said Schar, who joined Depor last year from Hoffenheim.

“I’m quite good with the ball. I like to play. I want to build up the game from the back.

“I think passing, and the long pass, is a strength of mine. I scored also some headers.

“He (Benitez) told me that he’s expecting this from me. I have nothing to change.

“I need experience of the Premier League. It’s different when you play here. I will work hard to be ready.”

Schar – who played at St James’s Park during the 2012 Olympics – is keen to test himself in England, having played in Switzerland, Germany and Spain.

“I like the English league,” he said.

“I also played once at St James’s Park. I had this brilliant experience.

“I’m really looking forward for the fans and the stadium.

“Now I hope to start training soon with the team.”

On his experience of St James’s Park during the Olympic Games, he added: “It was six years ago with the national team.

“We had one game here in Newcastle.

“The stadium was perfect, I loved it. When it’s your home stadium, it’s brilliant.

“I’m looking forward to the games here. The fans are crazy, I heard.”

“Not really, but now it will happen, so it’s a great day for me.”