Ross Wilson talks with 'bargain' defender planned as Newcastle United ponder deal
Newcastle United defender Fabian Schar is currently injured and out of contract this summer.
Fabian Schar might have played his last game for Newcastle United.
The 34-year-old has been out of action since January, when he suffered an ankle ligament injury during the 4-3 comeback victory over Leeds United at St James’ Park.
It was hoped Schar would return for the final seven matches of the campaign but with five games down and only two to go, the likelihood of that is becoming increasingly unlikely.
The former Switzerland international’s ankle is mended following surgery but he underwent another operation last month on an infected foot.
Newcastle United issue Fabian Schar injury update
Eddie Howe’s side visited Nottingham Forest on Sunday before ending the season with a home match against West Ham United and an away game at Fulham.
When asked if Schar would play a part, Howe said: “I'm not 100% sure. His situation was slightly unique.
“Obviously, he was very, very close to returning to full fitness and then got this infection, and it's something now he's building up his strength and his resilience again.
“He's looking a lot more positive in his body at the moment. Whether or not he's going to be fit enough to take the pitch again between now and the end of the season, let’s wait and see.”
Fabian Schar might have played his last game for Newcastle United
Schar has made over 250 appearances for Newcastle since joining from Deportivo La Coruna for a bargain £3million in 2018.
From fighting relegation to qualifying for the Champions League and winning a trophy, the Swiss defender has seen it all on Tyneside, though there’s a chance he might have played his last match in black and white.
Schar is out of contract on June 30, and the club has yet to decide on a new deal.
Howe said: “I think every situation is different and it's difficult to give a definitive date on that, but I'll be in communication with Ross [Wilson] between now and the end of the season, and when we know, we know.”
Newcastle have already confirmed that Kieran Trippier will leave when his contract expires this summer, while Emil Krafth and John Ruddy are also expected to depart.