Just as Newcastle were beginning to find form, another international week is upon us.
Rafa Benitez would have no doubt wanted to keep his players in a winning mentality, but some of his squad will have their focus elsewhere for the next few days.
Fortunately for the manager, the team as a whole haven’t received many international call-ups.
And for those that have been called up, the fixtures don’t look too taxing in terms of travelling.
The players called up for international week
After a fantastic week up front against Bournemouth, Salomon Rondon will be hoping to continue that form for the Venezuelan national team.
Rondon is still lacking some fitness, and Benitez will likely be frustrated at the striker’s two matches during the break.
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Although neither of his games are in South America which often causes travel fatigue, he still has a way to go.
Venezuela first play away to Japan on Friday and then travel to Qatar to play Iran four days later.
That amount of travelling and games will put question marks over his availability to play Burnley.
But there are plenty of other positives this international week.
DeAndre Yedlin will play both his matches in Europe, including a match against England on Thursday.
In fact all the players called up bar Rondon are playing their matches in Europe, meaning it’s unlikely any will suffer with fatigue.
Supporters will be watching out for Paul Dummett and Martin Dubravka as they participate in UEFA Nations League.
They’ll also be keen to see more of Fabian Schar for Switzerland as the defender looks to nail down a place in Rafa’s starting XI.
But perhaps the best news for Newcastle is the players who aren’t playing any internationals this week.
Ki Sung-yueng, Matt Ritchie and Ciaran Clark all wont be featuring for their nations meaning they will maintain their fitness and focus.
Newcastle will return to action on the 26th November against Burnley.
The international schedule for Newcastle players
Wednesday 14 November
Switzerland v Qatar – Fabian Schar
Thursday 15 November
England v USA – DeAndre Yedlin
Friday 16 November
Wales v Denmark – Paul Dummett
Japan v Venezuela – Salomon Rondon
Slovakia v Ukraine – Martin Dubravka
Sunday 18 November
Switzerland v Belgium – Fabian Schar
Monday 19 November
Czech Republic v Slovakia – Martin Dubravka
Italy v USA – Being played in Belgium – DeAndre Yedlin
Tuesday 20 November
Iran v Venezuela – Being played in Qatar – Salomon Rondon
Albania v Wales – Paul Dummett