Newcastle United criticism debunked by £3m transfer bargain brought in from the cold by Eddie Howe

However, a lot less has been said about what Eddie Howe has got out of the players he inherited just over a year ago.

One player was in the cold a year ago shortly before Howe’s arrival – and seemingly facing a future away from the club. That player was Fabian Schar, signed by Rafa Benitez in the summer of 2018.

Schar made a couple of appearances at the start of last season before dropping out of the team – and the ball-playing defender looked to have no future at the club under Steve Bruce.

The arrival of Howe – who had tried to sign Schar while Bournemouth manager – changed everything.

Schar, a fierce competitor, was recalled for Howe’s first game against Brentford last November – and he’s been a fixture in the team since then. Speaking in the summer, Schar said: “I’ve said this a lot of times. From day one, I’ve had confidence in the gaffer, which helps me a lot.

“Obviously, it was tough before (Howe’s arrival), but since they arrived, I felt confidence from them, 100%. I did my part as well, played my game and got back to my best.”

Schar signed a new two-year contract in April, and the 30-year-old reached a Premier League milestone on Sunday when he played in Newcastle’s stunning 2-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur.

The Switzerland international made his 100th Premier League appearance at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Schar tweeted: “I couldn't have imagined anything better for my 100th Premier League game! Thanks for your support! I love and appreciate it a lot.”

Howe, clearly, appreciates Schar, who has been playing alongside summer signing Sven Botman.

Speaking in February, Howe said: “Fabian’s someone I’ve always admired from afar from a number of years. Really, really good footballing centre-back.

"I’ve really enjoyed working with him. He’s a really good character, takes his football very seriously. Again, wants to improve. He hadn’t played in a long time, and I think his performances, as he’s physically improved, have got better and better.”

What’s more, he cost the club just £3million. Newcastle have been getting better and better – and that improvement isn’t all down to money.