Fabian Schar may rue international callup following Newcastle decision – opinion

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Newcastle United defender Fabian Schar has been called up by Switzerland by the upcoming international break.

Schar is one of six Toon players called up by their countries. Martin Dubravka, Emil Krafth, Jeff Hendrick, Miguel Almiron and Jamal Lewis will also represent their nations over the next seven days.

Switzerland have two World Cup qualifiers on the horizon, facing European champions Italy on Friday before a home clash with Bulgaria next Monday.

Schar’s side are currently level on points with Italy in Group C, making this a vital international break as the Swiss look to secure their place at next year’s World Cup.

But while the 29-year-old will be keen to help his country secure qualification, perhaps he’ll have one eye on what is going on back at Newcastle.

Fabian Schar needs to get back in the Newcastle team

Schar has fallen out of favour at St James’ Park. The defender hasn’t played a single minute since the 2-2 draw with Southampton in August.

This is much to the anger of fans, who are keen to see him return to the side along with Federico Fernandez.

Perhaps that might happen following a change of manager. Eddie Howe’s arrival was confirmed on Monday, and at 6.45am this morning he was at the training ground ready to get to work.

This international break is vital for Howe. It will give the new manager a chance to see what he’s got, and instil his ideas into the current crop of Toon players.

However, he won’t have much time to work with the players set for international duty. And that might hurt Schar the most out of the six players set to jet off.

Newcastle’s defence clearly needs improving, and Howe’s arrival should bring fresh competition for places.

But how will Schar be able to force his way back into the Newcastle starting XI if he’s busy representing his country?

It’s a vital two games for Schar and Switzerland, but the central defender may secretly wish he was back on Tyneside and proving to Eddie Howe why he belongs in the Newcastle starting XI.