Eddie Howe has hailed his centre-back pairing of Fabian Schar and Sven Botman and feels they would deserve to be in the PFA team of the year for 2022/23.
The Switzerland international and big-money summer signing from Lille last summer have formed a fine understanding in the heart of the Newcastle United defensive rearguard. And after pre-season began with stiff competition in the ranks from Dan Burn and skipper Jamaal Lascelles, the pair have fought off their nearest rivals for the centre-back spots this term.
Howe said: "Statistically, they would make a great case for being in the shake-up for that (PFA team of the year). They have both been really consistent.
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"They have been very solid and reliable. To play centre-half at this level you need to have brilliant concentration levels, because one mistake, one slip and you are cut open.
"So full compliment to two players who have enjoyed playing with each other."
Howe feels the duo's friendship off the pitch has certainly helped beef up the Toon defence and turn it into the stingiest defence in the top-flight
Howe added: "I'd say they like each other and get on. But their real relationship is on the pitch.
"They are very different which I think you need. But they also have similar characteristics which go together well.
"You never know how partnerships will go together until you see it. Thankfully from the first minute they have struck up a relationship."
And Howe also feels more of his Newcastle team should be in and around the PFA team of the year.
Howe said: "There should be. Without naming names which I do not think is fair but I do think there are players who have had great seasons and have been really consistent."
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