Wise spenders: Newcastle can afford expensive players, but they're looking to keep those they've got first

Swiss international Fabian Schar has had a season a lot like his club Newcastle United. He was hardly ever playing at the start of the season as the Magpies got off to a terrible start and quickly found themselves in the relegation zone. But just a few months later, Schar is playing, Newcastle are winning - and the Swiss has signed a new contract.

It's a wild season and an unexpected turnaround. After the stunningly wealthy PIF Investment Fund acquired the club, new manager Eddie Howe was appointed and managed to turn the tide. The result kept on coming and it's now certain that the Magpies won't be relegated to the EFL Championship.

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The 30-year-old defender, who had joined Newcastle from Deportivo La Coruna in 2018 for just $4.4 million, went through a revival of his own, much like many players at the club. Rather than leaving at the end of the season, Schar has now signed a new contract to remain a black and white for two more years.

The Switzerland international, who will probably represent his country at the upcoming World Cup in Qatar, thanked the supporters for their support through some tough times.

"Since my first day in Newcastle, I felt so comfortable. It's like a second home and now to stay here for some more years, I'm delighted."

Coach Eddie Howe will be tempted to splash some of the available cash in the coming months, but he's happy to keep one of the less glamorous players in his dressing room.

"I've been delighted with Fabian's form. He's the ultimate professional and a hugely important player in our dressing room. I'm delighted he has committed himself to the club. He's very driven for future success, and I'm pleased he will be a part of our future."

Newcastle remain linked with Lille defender Sven Botman and Sevilla's Diego Carlos, along with just about every player in the world. But, for the time being, they are sticking to what they've already got.

PREMIER LEAGUE

Saturday

14.30: (7.75) Newcastle (4.50) Liverpool (1.43)

17.00: (2.45) Southampton (3.30) Crystal Palace (3.15)

17.00: (2.75) Watford (3.15) Burnley (2.85)

17.00: (1.45) Aston Villa (4.50) Norwich (8.50)

17.00: (2.70) Wolverhampton (2.95) Brighton (2.90)

19.30: (9.00) Leeds (5.50) Man.City (1.32)

Sunday

16.00: (1.47) Tottenham (4.40) Leicester (7.00)

16.00: (4.70) Everton (3.60) Chelsea (1.87)

18.30: (4.60) West Ham (3.70) Arsenal (1.85)

Monday

22.00: (1.80) Man.Utd. (3.70) Brentford (5.00)

***odds are subject to change