FABIAN SCHAR is hoping Newcastle United’s growing reputation as set-piece specialists will help them maintain their challenge in the upper reaches of the Premier League table in the second half of the season.

While the Magpies were unable to threaten Leeds from open play during Saturday’s goalless draw at St James’ Park, they threatened on a number of occasions from corners and free-kicks.

Schar failed to convert a couple of decent opportunities, while his fellow centre-half, Sven Botman, was also unable to make a proper connection with a sliding effort that was ultimately easily saved by Leeds goalkeeper Illan Meslier.

Kieran Trippier’s set-piece deliveries make him one of the Premier League’s key performers when it comes to claiming assists, with Schar and his fellow defenders determined to continue making the most of the England international’s talents.

“We are becoming a dangerous side from set-pieces,” said Schar, whose only goal this term remains his long-range effort against Nottingham Forest on the opening weekend. “From Kieran’s delivery, we always think it is a good chance to score.

“We have scored quite a few from such situations. I like to score a few goals, and I should have scored (against Leeds), especially with the second chance, which was an excellent save from their keeper.”

Schar admits there was a sense of collective disappointment at the weekend as Newcastle signed off for 2022 with a shutout.

The result ended the Magpies’ six-game Premier League winning run, and while there were times at the start of the year when a goalless draw against anyone would have been regarded as a step forward, the scale of the club’s progress in the last 12 months has been such that a game like Saturday’s is now regarded as a setback.

“Yes, these days when we drop two points, it is a disappointment,” agreed the Swiss centre-half. “When you see where we are now, then yes, we set high standards and do not like to fall below them.

“I think it shows how much we have improved – not only are we looking to keep those standards, we are trying to improve them.”

Defensively, Newcastle did not give anything away at the weekend, with their solidity at the back having become one of their key assets.

“We do not give away many chances,” said Schar. “We have been pretty solid most of the season. Everyone knows their job, and what to do. It means if we keep a clean sheet, we will at least get the point.”