Eddie Howe looks like he spent his two weeks off in the gym lifting as he stands on the training pitch in Riyadh to give his interview to NUFC TV.
Speaking after the first training session of the warm-weather camp, Eddie spoke of the challenges the squad have faced in the baking temperatures: “It’s hot. Training in heat it’s always a slightly different session so we’ve put them through their paces, I think they’ve found it quite difficult.”
When asked if the contrasting league positions between this year and last year’s trip factor into the planning, Howe said “I don’t think it changes it from my perspective.
“The league position really goes out the window, it’s more you’re just focusing on continuous improvement. Obviously, there’s a very good feeling around the group and I think that’s probably the difference, there’s a lot of confidence, we just have to manage that and make sure it doesn’t spill over into a negative”
Alexander Isak is looking close to a return to fitness as the clip showed him in training with the group, but Howe did make mention of him still being injured, so whether he will be able to play on Thursday remains to be seen. He also confirmed that Dan Burn didn’t travel with the squad due to illness but will be flying out to link up with the squad in due course.
Thursday’s game with Al-Hilal can be watched live and free of charge on NUFC TV – Kick off is 5pm.