Newcastle United defender Fabian Schar was on international duty last week.
He played in two matches for Switzerland – one in the UEFA Nations League and the other was a friendly.
Schar for Switzerland
Switzerland registered an impressive 6-0 win over Iceland in the UEFA Nations League.
Playing in Group A of Division 2, the Swiss worked hard and reaped their rewards.
Up against Iceland, Schar was faced with some talented attackers. These included Gylfi Sigurdsson of Everton.
The 26-year-old was solid throughout and contributed towards a clean sheet for his country.
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Switzerland then travelled to Leicester City’s King Power Stadium. There, they faced England in a friendly game.
While England ran out 1-0 winners in the end, Schar managed to keep the likes of Marcus Rashford, Danny Welbeck and Harry Kane quiet for most of the game.
Kane is one of the most dangerous strikers in the world and Schar was part of a defence which shackled him well for the half hour he was on the pitch.
How does this help Newcastle?
Newcastle are still taking their time to get going this season. Rafa Benitez’s side only have one point from their opening four matches.
And this weekend, they face a tricky challenge against Arsenal, who have won back-to-back games.
Schar’s international form will therefore encourage Newcastle fans. The Switzerland international conceded just one goal against two decent footballing countries.
With Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang heading to St James’ Park hungry to score goals, Schar needs to use his international form to keep them quiet and get Newcastle the result.