The club confirmed this morning that they will be heading back to Saudi Arabia for a warm-weather training camp during the World Cup.
Eddie Howe took his men to Saudi Arabia during the winter break last season for warm-weather training which turned out to be the catalyst for the rise in the team’s form that season, so no doubt Howe will be hoping for a similar effect this time around.
Eddie Howe told NUFC.co.uk: “The break for the World Cup gives us the opportunity for a mini pre-season ahead of a crucial part of the season, and I’m pleased to have finalised our plans.
“Our trip to Jeddah in January was pivotal for us last season. It galvanised the group, and the hard work the players put in was rewarded in performances and results on our return.
“We will have access to world-class facilities as refurbishments at our own training ground continue, and we look forward to facing Al-Hilal and playing in front of our growing numbers of supporters in the region.”
As Howe mentioned, there is a swell of support for the club in that region due to the club being owned by the Saudi PIF, so as much as it is a useful trip in terms of team-building and squad development, it’s also a fantastic PR exercise and a great way to increase revenue with supporters in the region more inclined to go out and buy club merchandise if they get to see the team live.
Not just that, but Al-Hilal, the team Newcastle will be facing in a friendly on their trip, are the most decorated club in the league and have won the last three Saudi Pro League titles, so it’ll be a good test for the Magpies as well as a huge interest for the locals.
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DID I MENTION MY CO-HOST IS AN EVERTON FAN???