Newcastle United star dropped after 'open & honest' chat as decision made on duo ahead of summer

Newcastle United defender Fabian Schar has lost his place in Switzerland's starting XI following showdown talks with manager Murat Yakin.

The 32-year-old has been an ever-present for the Magpies in the Premier League this campaign. Only twice has he failed to make an appearance in all competitions, and that was in the Carabao Cup against Manchester United and Chelsea.

Indeed, no player has started more games for United under Eddie Howe since he was appointed as head coach in November 2021. Schar is an invaluable member of Howe's squad, although his position at international level is contrasting.

Rather than start games, Yakin has told Schar ahead of Euro 2024 that he is back up to Manchester City's Manuel Akanji and Nico Elvedi of Borussia Monchengladbach.

“It was an intensive exchange, open and honest," said Yakin. "We haven’t discussed it like that before. He now knows his role.

"Of course he wants to play. We can’t allow ourselves to fall out within the national team. Fabian is now looking forward, let’s see how he accepts his role.”

Switzerland are in action on Saturday evening when they travel to Denmark before heading to Dublin to take on the Republic of Ireland three days' later.

While Yakin's decision is a blow to Schar, it's likely to be blessing in disguise for Newcastle, who can't afford many more injuries if they are to secure European qualification. On Wednesday, it was confirmed centre-back partner Sven Botman will be out for six to nine months with an ACL injury.

There are 10 Premier League games remaining, starting with West Ham United on Saturday, March 30. As it stands, the Magpies are four points below the seventh place Hammers.