Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe could make changes to his defense ahead of Sunday’s game against Wolves.
The Magpies have brought Fabian Schar back from suspension after the Newcastle United defender missed the previous three games through suspension.
Schar has played just 28 minutes so far this season, having been sent off early on the opening day of the new campaign.
But he is now available again and hopes to be selected for Newcastle’s trip to Wolves on Sunday.
Schar looks likely to start against Wolves and it will be a welcome return for a player Eddie Howe admits his side have missed in his absence.
Eddie Howe admits Newcastle missed Fabian Schar’s passing
Before Newcastle’s game against Wolves, Howe spoke to the media. When asked what kind of miss Schar was, he used the question as an opportunity to pay tribute to Emil Krafth, who took over as the Swiss defender in the side.
“I definitely think with Fabian, his ability on the ball is undeniable,” he said.
“We missed that aspect of his game.
“But I think Emil has done an outstanding job. I can’t praise him enough, especially given that this is not his first position.”
Howe added: “Fabian is unique and we missed his outstanding qualities.”
Emil Krafth deserves praise for his achievements
It’s really great to see Howe take the time to praise Krafth for his contributions over the past few weeks.
The Sweden international has performed very well at centre-back alongside Dan Burn, maintaining Newcastle’s unbeaten start to the season with a string of excellent performances.
Krafth performed fantastically, despite the fact that he is of course a right-back. He has shown his versatility which is why he is such a valuable player for Eddie Howe.
Schar can change the way Newcastle play
Although the Krafth has done well, it doesn’t have the same qualities as the Schar.
The 32-year-old is a superb passer of the ball and the lack of that ability has certainly hindered Newcastle’s way of playing. This forced Howe’s side to sit a little deeper, which was very evident in the 2-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur.
But Schar’s return should free up Newcastle to play higher up the pitch and should allow the Magpies’ midfielders to get the ball in more impactful areas.
In the summer, Newcastle attempted to sign the right-sided centre-back, with the aim of becoming Schar’s long-term replacement. But the £3m man still has a lot to offer and it’s great that he’s back and available for selection.
Schar is set to start against Wolves and I hope he lasts longer than against Southampton!