Eddie Howe has taken his Newcastle United players to Dubai during the international break, as he looks for one final push in what has been a sensational season.
The Newcastle players who are not on international duty have been undergoing a warm weather training camp, and Howe believes it has been incredibly beneficial for three of his players.
While the likes of Kieran Trippier and Alexander Isak are not involved, there have been roles for Emil Krafth, Anthony Gordon and Harrison Ashby.
And Howe has singled out those three players for getting the most out of the mid-season trip to Dubai.
Eddie Howe delighted for Emil Krafth
The Toon boss has spoke to NUFC TV about some of the players who have travelled to Dubai for the warm weather training camp.
“Really good for the long term injured, like Emil,” Howe said.
“Coming here is a godsend really as it gives him a chance to be around the players again rather than detached and on his own like he would be normally. Brilliant mentally for him.
“For Anthony, he’s got a chance, more for the new players to know the players better.
“So Anthony, Harrison Ashby will now feel, I believe, fully integrated into the group. It sometimes takes a trip away to feel fully at home.”
Team spirit grows at Newcastle
There is a real togetherness at Newcastle United right now, which Howe has done a great job to instil since becoming manager. These mid-season trips have made a real difference, and hopefully the latest venture has had a positive impact.
Howe believes it will have, especially for Krafth. The £5million man has only started one game for the Magpies this season, and it resulted in him being stretchered off.
The Sweden international picked up a nasty knee injury in the Carabao Cup win over Tranmere Rovers back in August, and has not played since.
But he is stepping up his recovery, and is back running on the grass. He has been with the team in Dubai, and Howe believes it will have been great for him from a mental perspective. It must be very taxing being out injured for so long, so it is good to see Howe ensuring that Krafth is still involved in the group.
The Toon boss also believes the trip will have helped January signings Gordon and Ashby, who joined the club at a whirlwind time. The majority of their Toon career has been spent talking about the trip to Wembley, with Newcastle reaching the Carabao Cup final shortly after their arrival.
This trip will have helped them settle in too, and hopefully they can play a part in the Magpies finishing the season strong. Gordon will be particularly keen to do that following news of Miguel Almiron’s injury.