Fabian Schär extends Newcastle United stay | OneFootball

Fabian's contract was set to expire at the end of June but the 86-time Swiss international will now enter his ninth season at St. James' Park as preparations continue for the upcoming campaign.

The centre-back is the second-longest serving player in the current squad, having arrived from Spanish side Deportivo La Coruña in July 2018.

Fabian has 251 Magpies appearances to his name in all competitions and has played a key role in the success of recent seasons, helping the team twice secure UEFA Champions League qualification as well as lifting the Carabao Cup last year.

The 34-year-old has also established himself as a threat at the opposite end of the pitch, finding the net on an impressive 22 occasions.

On extending his stay with the club, Fabian said: "I'm really pleased to be staying at the club. I feel like I've achieved a lot in my eight years here but I believe there is still much more to come.

"I'm proud to call Newcastle home. Everybody knows how happy I am, both in this city and with this club, so I'm very glad to be continuing that for another year.

"Last season didn't end the way I wanted in terms of my injury, but my full focus now is on getting back to fitness and helping the team achieve our goals next season."

Head Coach Eddie Howe added: "Fabian has been outstanding since I arrived at the football club so I'm really pleased to see that he'll be staying with us.

"He's a really highly valued member of our squad, not only for his ability on the pitch but also for the leadership and experience he brings to the group.

"Fabian's form was really strong until injury ended his season. His creative distribution, defensive mentality and huge experience was a big miss towards the end of the last campaign. He has worked tirelessly to regain his fitness and we look forward to seeing him back in action next season."

Sporting Director Ross Wilson commented: "I'm delighted that Fabian has committed himself to the club and will continue his Newcastle United journey for another year.

"It's clear how highly regarded he is by everybody at the club. He's made a really positive impact during his eight years here and we believe he still has a key role to play both on and off the pitch.

"We had some complex discussion but all involved were keen to reach a conclusion on Fabian's future quickly following the season's end, so I'm pleased to have that clarity this early into the summer. We look forward to seeing Fabi back in the squad during pre-season."