Off contract in June, the Swiss defender has complained publicly about a lack of action he's seen this season.
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"Fabian is an outstanding player and has been for me for a long period of time," Howe told Chronicle Live.
"Very, very consistent and dependable and reliable. Every player that is not playing will be frustrated and will be anxious to get back into the team.
"All I can say to any of them is when they are picked, they need to perform and Fabian has done. He is training very well behind the scenes, he has been ultra professional so I have been really pleased."