Fabian Schar reacts to Andy Carroll's Steve Bruce dig after Newcastle stunner
Fabian Schar has responded to Andy Carroll after the former Newcastle United striker took aim at his old manager Steve Bruce.
The Magpies are enjoying an excellent spell under manager Eddie Howe, ending their long wait for a trophy with victory in the League Cup last month, and competing for Champions League qualification.
Prior to that though, it had been a more difficult period for the club under Bruce as he struggled to make an impact at Newcastle, particularly towards the end of his reign at St James' Park.
Indeed, the Magpies were fighting to avoid relegation from the Premier League when Bruce was sacked and replaced by Howe in late 2021.
Now, it appears as though two players who were part of his squad's at St James' Park have given an insight into their thoughts on their former manager.
Andy Carroll hails Fabian Schar with Steve Bruce swipe
While Carroll has since moved on from Newcastle and is now at Bordeaux, Schar is still on the books with the Magpies.
Indeed, the centre-back is playing a key part for Howe's side as they look to build on the success they have already enjoyed under their current boss.
On Monday (7 April), Schar produced a stunning strike that came off the crossbar and allowed Jacob Murphy to put Newcastle 2-0 up in their victory over Leicester City.
| Newcastle last five games | Result |
| Brighton (H) | Lost 2-1 (After Extra Time) |
| West Ham (A) | Won 1-0 |
| Liverpool (N) | Won 2-1 |
| Brentford (H) | Won 2-1 |
| Leicester (A) | Won 3-0 |
That was another reminder of how well the Swiss international is playing right now, and has prompted Carroll to question Bruce's decision not to play the defender more.
Replying to a post on Instagram from Schar about that win against the Foxes, the striker wrote: "And Brucey benched you", which was accompanied by a hands-over-the-eyes emoji.
The Newcastle defender then hinted he shared a similar frustration about his former manager, by simply replying with a zipped lips emoji.
Newcastle United player digs a damning reflection
Football Insider Verdict
It should perhaps be no surprise that some of those who played for the club under Bruce are now making comments such as this.
Newcastle were the subject of training ground leaks while Bruce was in charge, which even back then appeared to highlight a disconnect between those concerned here.
So the fact jokes are now coming at his expense seems to further emphasise that difficult relationship, while Schar is making his point with his performances on the pitch.
Bruce did not take too kindly to recent comments about his management from another former Newcastle player, Dwight Gayle, so it is hard to imagine he will be too pleased with this either.