OPINION
Things might look back on track for Newcastle United after their win over Watford but there is no doubting the Magpies were lucky to pull off their first victory of the season.
The Hornets travelled to St James’ Park flying high in the Premier League – in stark contrast to the Magpies sitting bottom of the table – but were stung by a second half header from Ayoze Perez to see their long trip north end with nothing to show for their efforts.
Newcastle have their substitutes to thank for their success, Jonjo Shelvey replacement Ki Seung-Yung delivering the fizzing cross from a free kick for Perez, who had taken the place of Yoshinori Muto, to head home.
The duo’s match-winning contributions meant that the third substitute, Fabian Schar, went under the radar but the performance from the Swiss international was just as important, and will have the Toon Army wondering why they have not seen more than the three appearances from the 26-year-old.
Simply put, Jamaal Lascelles, Federico Fernandez and Ciaran Clark have been or still are ahead of him in the pecking order, and it will likely remain that way for some time, despite Schar showing exceptional passing qualities and defensive capabilities against the Hornets.
It seems a waste of talent for the centre back to be sitting on the bench – which is why Benitez could pull off a masterstroke involving the shock axe of a first team mainstay.
Mohamed Diame might have appeared in every Premier League game this season but his performances have not been up to the heights they were last season, and with Schar waiting patiently in reserve, a stint in midfield could bring out the best of the Swiss star.
He has shown to have the necessary qualities – pace, strength, mobility and that brilliant passing vision – to thrive in the centre and he would be able to slot back into the defence naturally when needed in a game.
It gives Newcastle defensive resoluteness while bringing a pass master to their side, and would make them even more difficult to break down.
It could be a stroke of genius from Benitez – he just needs to take the plunge and be brutal with the axe in a shock switch.