Newcastle United could still strike deal with 'unique' star after summer transfer claim - Eddie Howe loves him
Newcastle United transfers: Eddie Howe has admitted Fabian Schar has been a big miss for his side amid uncertainty surrounding the defender’s future.
Newcastle United defender Fabian Schar is fighting to get back to fitness before the end of the season.
The 34-year-old centre-back has been out of action since January after initially suffering an ankle ligament injury during the 4-3 win over Leeds United. As he closed in on a return from injury, Schar then suffered an infection in his foot which required surgery and delayed his return by another month.
With three games remaining, it is unclear whether the former Switzerland will feature for Newcastle before the end of the season.
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In the 25 games Schar has missed since his injury, Newcastle have kept just three clean sheets. And Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe has admitted the experienced defender has been a ‘big miss’.
Schar is out of contract at the end of June as things stand, which would bring an eight-year spell at St James’ Park to an end if he doesn’t sign a new deal.
Eddie Howe responds to Fabian Schar exit claims
There have been suggestions and claims that the defender would be free to leave Newcastle this summer, but that was played down by Howe when discussing Schar.
“Yes, certainly no decision has been made on Fabian,” Howe said. “So, in terms of guesses and thoughts of his future, that he will be allowed to leave is very premature.
“Fabian, yes, he's been a big miss for us. Not underestimated by us at all. He is one of the most unique ball distributors, I think, in the Premier League.
“I don't think you'll see another player distribute the ball like he can and has done historically for us. He's been very creative from deep areas.
“We've certainly missed that ability to bypass an opponent's press that he gives us. He's versatile. He's played on the left, on the right, in the middle, in a back three. Yes, top player. But also very calming influence, very experienced.
“He's been a big, big miss. I'm a massive fan of Fabian, always have been. I think one of the first things I did when I came here was put him into the team.
“So, we hope he can get back to full fitness before the end of the season in terms of his contract. Let's wait and see.”