Schar (groin) is not believed to be seriously injured after being forced off in Wednesday's 4-1 friendly loss to Bristol City, according to coach Eddie Howe, per Lee Ryder of Chronicle Live. "I don't think Fabby is concerned. I don't think he is worried. He is a really good judge of his body and he is an experienced player. He is feeling tightness in his groin but he will be back really soon."
Analysis:Schar was substituted in the 21st minute of Wednesday's friendly loss, continuing a pattern of fitness issues that limited him to just 19 appearances across the Premier League and Champions League last season due to ankle, foot and concussion problems. With no match scheduled between now and the Aug. 8 friendly against Valencia, Newcastle faces no immediate pressure to rush him back, and manager Eddie Howe's comments suggest he remains on track to be ready for the club's Premier League opener against Liverpool on Aug. 23.
