Fabian Schar will miss Newcastle United’s next three games after receiving a red card for violent conduct.
The 32-year-old reacted to a challenge from Southampton striker Ben Brereton-Diaz midway through the first half at St James’ Park. The Chilean international sent the defender to the ground with a shove as he tried to play the ball back to Nick Pope, but the defender leapt up and went head-to-head with the striker before falling to the ground.
The Magpies got off to a slow start and almost went a goal behind when Dale Stephens hit the ball into the net, but the goal was disallowed following video review. They made sure their numbers disadvantage didn’t cost them dearly, however, breaking the deadlock through Joelinton just before half-time.
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The Brazilian finished confidently after Saints goalkeeper Alex McCarthy carelessly gave the ball to Alexander Isak, who found the midfielder at the penalty spot and took advantage of the mistake without hesitation.
Newcastle went into the break with a 1-0 lead, but the topic of conversation was Schar’s decision. The defender will miss the next three games for violent conduct.
He will miss the trip to AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest in the Carabao Cup before a third game against European rivals Tottenham Hotspur.
The Premier League Match Centre explained the decision as follows: “The referee showed Schär the red card for violent conduct. The VAR reviewed and confirmed the referee’s decision.”
Howe is likely to face new problems in defence after the defender’s indiscipline means he is unable to play the next few matches. Emil Krafth has moved into the back line but the Newcastle manager’s options are limited with Lloyd Kelly among the other candidates and players such as Jamal Lascelles and Sven Botman out with long-term injuries.
The Magpies are already in negotiations with Crystal Palace to sign Marc Guehi but have yet to make a breakthrough, with a fourth offer for the 24-year-old worth over £70million being rejected on Friday.
