There’s suddenly a lot of excitement around Newcastle United again.

The Magpies are playing attractive, attacking football and have won three out of their last five Premier League games. Rafa Benitez has clearly weaved his magic, with a tinker here and there producing a winning combination.

While there’s a lot of talk about Salomon Rondon lighting up their attack or youngsters like Sean Longstaff playing their part, defender Fabian Schar’s involvement is as vital. The Swiss defender’s been like a breath of fresh air in the Magpies' defence, with his involvement going forward getting the lions’ share of attention.

Schar’s not only been rock-solid defensively but shown admirable ambition going forward, getting rewarded against Burnley with a pile-driver to score Newcastle’s first. He also fulfilled his defensive duties superbly against a physical Clarets side, making seven clearances, four aerial wins and eight ball-recoveries, adding to his hero status on Tyneside. (stats via Fotmob)

He’s played a big part, helping solidifying Newcastle’s defensive strength, hence resulting in vital wins over the past few weeks. Schar’s helped them to back-to-back clean-sheets and formed a strong partnership with Jamal Lascelles. Ever since his blitz against Cardiff City, where he scored two stunning goals - including one where he danced past multiple men before finishing beautifully- his confidence’s gone up.

Schar’s now operating freely and using his intelligence to tighten up the Magpies defensive structure. If he keeps up his impressive work at the back and scoring world-class goals, it won’t be long before bigger sides come hunting for his services.