OPINION
There’s no doubt that Newcastle United centre back Fabian Schar was the name on the tips of the majority of the tongues leaving St James’ Park on Saturday.
The Switzerland international scored the equaliser for Steve Bruce’s side as they battled back from conceding an early goal to secure a 1-1 draw with Watford.
The former Deportivo man stood out in what was a clear Man of the Match display, putting in an all-action performance that had a little bit of everything from a player who is so much more than a mere defender.
His finish for his goal was Alan Shearer-esque, a lesson to Newcastle’s attackers in how to get the job done. Aside from that, though, he dictated play for much of the 90 minutes, before being replaced late.
As per WhoScored.com, the 27-year-old attempted 58 passes against the Hornets, second only to midfielder Sean Longstaff out of Bruce’s men. 14 of those 58 were long balls forward, something Newcastle fans have become accustomed to seeing from one of the best ball-playing centre halves in the Premier League.
Not that his finesse on the ball means he shirks his defensive duties. Schar made three tackles on Saturday, the joint most of any Magpie, while also completing two vital interceptions.
Clearly he was the man in amongst it at St James’ for Bruce’s team – he really was excellent. However, is there reason to worry about the Swiss star?
Journalist Lee Ryder revealed on his personal Twitter account after the game that the Newcastle boss confessed to him that Schar suffered from ‘dizzy spells’ at half time on Saturday.
This is the same player who suffered a horror clash of heads for his country several months ago. That, combined with this latest head-related issue, is surely cause for big concern on Tyneside.
