Soccer 'Lascelles a great character' - Schar
Newcastle's Fabian Schar has welcomed his reunion with Jamaal Lascelles in the Magpies defence.
Speaking before Tuesday's Champions League game against Borussia Dortmund, Schar said: "It’s been brilliant.
"He’s stepping in and performing at a really high level. I’m really happy for him because it wasn’t easy not playing too much.
"I was in a similar situation. But he is so professional and a great character off the pitch and has performed really well."
Lascelles' return has largely been down to Newcastle's injury problems in defence, made worse by Dan Burn's recent back injury which will sideline him for a number of months.
On Burn's absence, Schar said: "It is a big blow. Dan is so important for us.
"He has been brilliant, not just on the pitch but off the pitch, and it’s another blow in terms of injuries. Now it’s time for other players to step up and I’m really confident in the team."
Schar said Eddie Howe's side head into Tuesday's game full of confidence after a hard-fought win over Arsenal.
"I’m feeling good. A win always helps, especially against a top team. It gives you boost and confidence.
"Everyone who steps into the team is performing at a high level. We have a few injuries but I’m proud of the team and the quality we have.
"When we play at home, the crowd give us so much and it’s going to be the same for them tomorrow. But we have to focus on ourselves and forget the noise going on around us and focus on our performance."
