‘He was big for me’ - Fabian Schar reveals key reason why he joined Newcastle United

Fabian Schar has named Rafa Benitez as the main reason for him joining Newcastle United.

With funds tight, the Spaniard persuaded former owner Mike Ashley to spend £3million on the Swiss international almost six years ago. The Magpies had just finished 10th in their first season back in the Premier League.

Schar was part of the Deportivo La Coruna side which were relegated from La Liga and Newcastle pounced to activate his release clause. His ball-playing capabilities appealed to Benitez, who tinkered between a back four and a five-man defence as Toon boss.

Pound for pound, the now 32-year-old has become one of the Magpies’ best signings of the Premier League era. That £3million has been repaid tenfold, with Schar still an integral part of Eddie Howe’s side.

From the moment he arrived at Newcastle, the defender had an eye for the spectacular, scoring a 30-yard screamer against Burnley. Recent heroics to put Paris Saint-Germain to the sword also spring to mind when assessing Schar’s career at St James’ Park.

The club announced just hours after smashing local rivals Sunderland 3-0 that Schar has penned a one-year extension, keeping him at the club until 2025. Speaking to their media channel, the centre-back revealed the prospect of playing under Benitez is what initially attracted him to Tyneside.

“He was one reason to come (to Newcastle). I had a great year under him. I was really thankful for what he did to me and the opportunity he gave me. Without him, I wouldn’t be here at the moment (at Newcastle) so he was a big person for me.

“I love Newcastle because the fans are just incredible. Playing at St James’ Park, for me, is the best thing as a footballer. I enjoy every home game and scoring goals, winning games for Newcastle, just to see the fans.”