Fabian Schar issues 15-word message after returning from seven-month Newcastle United injury blow
Newcastle United injuries: Fabian Schar made his return for Newcastle after seven months out.
Fabian Schar’s long road to recovery made a significant step forward on Saturday as he started Newcastle United’s 1-1 pre-season friendly draw at Gateshead.
It was the 34-year-old defender’s first outing since suffering a serious ankle injury during a 4-3 Premier League win over Leeds United back in January and a subsequent foot infection that required surgery.
Schar played an hour at the Gateshead International Stadium as Newcastle were frustrated by their non-league neighbours in front of a crowd of more than 7,000 supporters.
But with a big focus on the early pre-season matches being fitness, it was an important step forward for Schar as he pushes to be ready for the start of the competitive season on August 23 against Liverpool.
Following his return, the Swiss centre-back took to Instagram to issue a thank you message.
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Fabian Schar injury message
It read: “Felt good being back out there after seven months out! Thank you for the support.”
Schar’s injury led to uncertainty over whether he had played his last game for the club given his contract was set to expire this summer. But Newcastle were able to strike a new one-year deal with the experienced defender as he now prepares for his ninth season.
Speaking after signing his new deal, Schar said: “I was very pleased. I don't have to say what the club means to me; it was always my first choice to stay here. I'm glad we found an agreement and it was good to get it done early.
"It's been a difficult time after my injury and what happened with my foot. I was glad I could really focus on coming back and knowing what's going to happen this year, being ready for day one.
"The last six months after my injury were the hardest of my career. I had to go through a lot and it was hard so I'm feeling a lot better now.