Newcastle United star issues England and Eddie Howe warning amid Gareth Southgate speculation

Schar and Switzerland will face England in Dusseldorf tonight (5pm kick-off) with a place in the Euro 2024 semi-finals on the line. The Swiss have been very impressive during the tournament so far and scored a comfortable victory over holders Italy in their Round of 16 match.

England, meanwhile, have disappointed and needed a very late equaliser from Jude Bellingham against Slovakia to keep their tournament alive last time out. The Three Lions are just one game away from a third semi-final in their last four major tournaments, however, they will be hoping to put in a better performance against Switzerland as rumours surrounding Southgate’s future as manager continue to swirl.

The former Middlesbrough man may leave his role as England manager no matter what happens this summer in Germany - and if that does happen, then Eddie Howe has been named as a potential successor. Howe is seemingly viewed as a preferred candidate by the FA, but Schar has revealed he wants to see the 46-year-old stay at St James’ Park.

Schar said: “I actually hope he will stay at Newcastle. Because if you see the work he has done at Newcastle over the last few years, he has a lot of quality and knows how to handle a big club and a big team.

“For myself as well, he has done so well. I am really happy to have him as manager. Hopefully he stays at Newcastle, that is the only thing I can think of.”

England could play a different system against Switzerland tonight, with a back-three and wing-backs being tipped as a potential option for Southgate. Such a radical change is a big risk for Southgate, but Schar is anticipating a tough game no matter what in Dusseldorf.

“No matter how they have played, they are in the quarter-finals,’ said Schar. ‘They can hurt their opponents at any time, so we need to be prepared for that.

“I wouldn't underestimate England. They have seen us play in the last few games, they know what our strengths are, but for Switzerland it would be great to show what we are capable of.”