Newcastle United have the best defensive record in the Premier League this season, and the partnership of Fabian Schar and Sven Botman is a big reason why.
The Swiss centre-back has been revitalised by Eddie Howe’s arrival at the club, and played an important role in Newcastle avoiding relegation last season.
Now he has been joined by Botman, who signed for the Magpies during the summer transfer window. He cost £35million from Lille, and appears to be worth every penny so far.
The duo have struck up a sensational partnership at St James’ Park, laying the foundation for Newcastle’s incredible season alongside Nick Pope, Kieran Trippier and Dan Burn.
The Magpies’ defence is the best in the league, with Howe being able to rely on two centre-backs who are exactly what you want in a modern day defender. They are both brilliant with the ball, but are just as good at digging in and putting their bodies on the line.
Schar has really improved under Howe, and believes that Botman is also going to get a lot better in the coming years – so much so that he becomes one of the world’s elite centre-backs.
Fabian Schar thinks Sven Botman can become one of the best
Newcastle’s number five has been speaking to the Telegraph, and explained why Botman is such a special player.
“I look at him sometimes, still, even after playing with him for months, and just think ‘wow’,” Schar said.
“I wish I looked like him when I was 23. I wish I was as good as him when I was that age.
“He has everything you look for in a centre back, good in the air, strong in the tackle and fast too. He is also excellent on the ball.
“He is the complete package and if he carries on his current trajectory he is going to be one of the best defenders in the world.”
Newcastle officials think the same about Botman
That is a huge prediction from Schar about Botman. And it is a testament to his start in black and white that Schar believes the Dutchman can go on to become one of the best centre-backs around.
As Schar says, Botman has got it all. And he is only 23, so has so much room to grow and get even better.
That must be a worrying thought for the rest of the Premier League, who missed a trick when they let Newcastle sign him unchallenged.
Toon officials clearly recognised Botman’s potential, and agree with Schar’s assessment. It was reported shortly after his arrival in the summer by the Northern Echo that people inside the club believe Botman can become one of the world’s best defenders.
He has only been at SJP for half a season, but the early signs are promising. Newcastle struck gold when they landed Sven Botman for £35million.