Newcastle United star Fabian Schar says he has never experienced team spirit such as the type on display in the Magpies' dressing room at present. The Swiss defender, 30, has enjoyed a stellar start to the season with Newcastle's defence statistically the best in the Premier League.
Schar almost left Tyneside after being thrown on the scrapheap by Steve Bruce before the arrival of Eddie Howe 12 months ago. Since then, the £3m signing in 2018 has flourished under his new-found responsibility at the heart of Newcastle 's defence.
Jetting off to the World Cup with Switzerland this week, Schar has reflected on his time with Newcastle and admits both the £300m takeover and Howe's arrival on Tyneside have revived his career in the north east.
READ MORE: From non-league conqueror to World Cup star - Inside the incredible rise of Newcastle's Nick Pope
“The turning point was definitely the takeover of the new owners and the new manager, who has done an incredible job so far," Schar told 20 minutes. "In addition, the team spirit is better than I’ve ever experienced. But it all comes with extremely hard work.”
Schar's Switzerland will be hoping to go deep into the tournament, despite facing Bruno Guimaraes' Brazil in the group stage later this month. The tournament ends in December with just a few days until Newcastle's Carabao Cup clash with Bournemouth at St James' Park.
Schar has personally been in the wars of late with Newcastle enduring a busy schedule in the run up to the World Cup break. However, the centre-back admits he is relishing the constant matches, both for club and country.
“The schedule demands a lot from us, but I love playing for Newcastle and I love representing Switzerland at a World Cup," he added. "I don’t really care about the tight schedule.”
READ NEXT
The Cristiano Ronaldo problem Eddie Howe is striving to avoid at Newcastle United
Unseen Joelinton moment shows Newcastle United star's passion after fiery end to Chelsea clash
'My only focus' - Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe dismisses continued England speculation
£275m Chelsea problem serves as reminder to Eddie Howe's Newcastle United doubters
Grealish not forgiven, Potter can't decide, Cucurella's SJP welcome - Moments you may have missed
