FABIAN SCHAR believes his one goal at Newcastle United is to win a trophy after signing a new deal at St James’ Park.
Schar, who joined Newcastle from Deportivo La Corua in July 2018, has made 169 appearances for the Magpies and claims he feels at home there.
It hasn’t always been easy for the defender, who fell out of favor during Steve Bruce’s tenure as manager, but the 32-year-old has been a vital role since Eddie Howe’s arrival.
Schar’s contract was set to end this summer, but a one-year extension has been agreed upon.
“I’ve said it a lot of times, but I feel really at home here,” the centre-half stated.
“I love living in Newcastle; I love the city, I love playing for the club, and I love the incredible fans.” I can’t express how much I adore them and value their support enough.
“Playing for this team, where I feel so comfortable with all of my teammates and the coaching staff, feels like a family to me, so I’m grateful to stay here a little longer and hopefully have some more exciting times.”
“I’ve felt at ease since the first day.” Obviously, there have been difficult periods for both myself and the club, but I’ve always felt at ease here. That made the decision so simple. “I’m really excited about the future.”
Howe is overjoyed. Schar has agreed to stay with the Magpies for another year.
“Fabian has been fantastic for us,” he remarked. He’s been a model of consistency and a key component of our success since I joined the football club.
“He’s defended very well but he’s hugely talented with the ball as well, so we’re delighted that he’s extended his time here.”
And Schar was quick to credit Howe for his role in reviving both Newcastle and his career on Tyneside.
“I say it all the time, Eddie has been massive, not just for me, but for the entire club,” he remarked.
“He came into a difficult situation, but he trusted me from the start and helped me become the player I wanted to be and the player I am.” I’m grateful to him and the coaching staff for instilling confidence in me to play my game.”
Schar has 11 goals in black and white, the most famous being the game-winning goal in the 4-1 Champions League thrashing of PSG in October.
“It’s difficult to pick just one moment,” the defender stated when asked about his Newcastle highlights.
“Probably the game against Paris, scoring that 4-1 goal was a really special night for me.” Going to Wembley or the last two years as a club, to be a part of it and cherish every moment.
“I look forward to playing every game and I try to leave my heart on the pitch and play for the badge.”
After a trying period, Schar is hoping that Saturday’s derby triumph against Sunderland would jump-start Newcastle’s season. He thinks he “believes in this team more than ever” and is desperate to win some silverware before leaving St James’ Park.
“We’ve had some tough moments but the season is long, you have highs and lows,” he told reporters.
“I’m really confident in the players and the club because we’re a team and a family.”
“We’re emerging from a difficult period, but we’ll stick together as we always do, and I’m confident we’ll be back to our best.”
“I think the last two years have been wild, with a lot of thrilling experiences.
“I want to do everything possible; we’ll see how the season goes and what’s possible, but I believe in this team more than ever.”
“If I had a single career ambition, it would be to win a trophy with Newcastle at some point.” I’m hoping I’ll still be here when that happens.”
