The Magpies got their campaign underway with a 1-0 win over Southampton at St James’ Park back in August, but the headlines were stolen by Saints ‘striker’ Ben Brereton-Diaz whose theatrics saw Newcastle defender Fabian Schar hit with a straight red card.
The two players went head-to-head following a meaty challenge with Brereton-Diaz dropping to the floor like Schar had just given him a Glaswegian Greeting. Replays showed that nothing of the sort had happened, but the referee had made his decision by this point.
Despite the comic nature of the event, the card stood and Fabian Schar was slapped with a three-game ban.
Southampton have got rid of Ben Brereton-Diaz
Ben Brereton-Diaz has headed back to Sheffield United
Now back from another round of suspensions, Fabian Schar was likely relishing the prospect of going up against Brereton-Diaz again on Saturday, but his dreams have been shattered.
The Chilean has now moved back to Sheffield United on loan for the remainder of the season after failing to do anything of note beyond making a mockery of the game at Southampton.
It’s a return to Bramall Lane for the 25-year-old who also spent the latter half of last season on loan at the Blades from Villarreal.
The move probably saved Fabian Schar from another three-match ban
As The Shields Gazette has pointed out, his move to Sheffield United saves him from the indignity of back-to-back relegations, although he still played his part for the Saints this season.
We’ll certainly not miss him while he’s on his Championship adventure.
In truth, it’s probably come at the right time as there was every chance of Fabi picking up another three-game ban after he lifted BBD into the stands on Saturday.
