This article is part of Football FanCast’s The Chalkboard series, which provides a tactical insight into teams, players, managers, potential signings and more…
Fabian Schar has been missing through injury since late October but his comeback against Manchester City on Saturday would be a big boost to Newcastle’s chances of winning points.
On the chalkboard
The Switzerland international is a popular figure in the north-east for his defensive displays as well as his ability on the ball, and his love for driving forward in possession.
His absence could have been a significant loss for the Magpies but they have coped well without him in the main, mostly due to the organisation that Steve Bruce has implemented and the other strong centre-backs in the squad.
However, one of those who has been playing well, captain Jamaal Lascelles, is out injured now, and the fact he was missed against Aston Villa was very noticeable as Newcastle succumbed to a 2-0 defeat.
The main reason for that was the organisation that he brings, which can only be replicated with the experience and know-how of a player like Schar.
He understands what it takes to keep clean sheets at the highest level thanks to his experience on the international stage, and this term he has also been one of Newcastle’s stand-out defenders.
[ad_pod ]
His leadership is what the Magpies lacked at Villa Park and that alone is cause for Steve Bruce to bring him back into the starting line-up, though his 2.4 tackles and 2.4 interceptions per game, according to WhoScored, mean he is well-equipped to handle danger.
Coming up against Manchester City promises to be a tough affair, even without the prolific Sergio Aguero who misses out through injury.
Gabriel Jesus is likely to take his place and will look to seize on this rare opportunity by adding to his three goals in four starts, and given he loses the ball an average 0.4 times per game, as per WhoScored, it promises to be a difficult encounter for the Swiss.
However, Schar will have two centre-backs playing alongside him if he occupies the central role, and if he can organise them to help him crowd out the Brazilian then he and his team should have some success.
Newcastle are likely to sit deep just as they have done in previous matches against the Citizens, and that should allow the £10.8m-rated defender to keep close to Jesus, and restrict his movement, which is often key to the 22-year-old’s success – as his goals this season show.
Schar has proved this term than he has a good handle on his own penalty box with 5.1 clearances per game, and that should prove vital with the likes of Kevin De Bruyne and Bernado Silva fizzing over crosses.
Newcastle may also have success if Bruce makes another tactical change, with the attack in need of reinvention.
