‘Hardest of my career’ – Fabian Schar breaks silence on his Newcastle United injury hell
‘Hardest of my career’ – Fabian Schar breaks silence on his Newcastle United injury hell
Fabian Schar last featured for Newcastle United in their 4-3 comeback victory against Leeds United on January 7.
Long-serving Newcastle United defender Fabian Schar has described the last six months as the hardest of his career.
The 34-year-old last featured for the Magpies in January after he sustained ankle ligament damage during the 4-3 comeback win against Leeds United.
Schar underwent surgery and was due to return in April before a foot infection, which required a minor operation, brought his campaign to a premature end.
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With his contract due to expire on June 30, there was a real possibility Schar had already played his final game for the Magpies. However, in a testament to his commitment to the club, he is understood to have accepted reduced terms to sign a one-year contract extension.
Newcastle United defender Fabian Schar on his injury hell
The former Switzerland international is now injury-free as he prepares for his ninth season in black and white after joining from Deportivo La Coruna for just £3million back in July 2017.
Reflecting on his new deal and recent injury troubles, Schar told the club’s website: “I was very pleased. I don’t have to say what the club means to me; it was always my first choice to stay here. I’m glad we found an agreement and it was good to get it done early.
“It’s been a difficult time after my injury and what happened with my foot. I was glad I could really focus on coming back and knowing what’s going to happen this year, being ready for day one.
“The last six months after my injury were the hardest of my career. I had to go through a lot and it was hard so I’m feeling a lot better now.
“There was unfinished business. I had a big setback with surgery which wasn’t planned. I was close to coming back earlier and then had an infection which was tough. I felt gutted for it to end like that but I feel I am still able to add something to the team.”
Newcastle United & Fabian Schar back in pre-season
Schar and the rest of his Newcastle teammates, excluding those who have been involved at the World Cup, reported back for pre-season training on Monday. They kick off their fixture schedule with a behind-closed-doors friendly against National League North side Darlington on Saturday afternoon.
“I worked really hard and I’m ready to go,” Schar continued, “Hopefully, I can try to enjoy this next season.
“I’m going to need some time to adapt after being out for such a long period but I feel confident in my body and myself. I’m going to use this pre-season to come back as strongly as possible.”
“It’s great to be back,” Schar added. “Normally, the first days of pre-season are not the best because you have testing and other things but it’s always nice to see everyone.
“After not being with the team for a long time, to start training again is a good feeling and I’m quite excited.”
