Eddie Howe now confirms the club will not be heading off to warmer climes this winter

The past two seasons under Eddie Howe Newcastle United have jetted off to the Middle-East for a warm weather training camp.

These trips have often resulted in the Magpies coming back better than ever. In 2022 it seemed to be the touch of magic that was missing and when Newcastle returned to the Premier League they went on a run that saw them leap out of the relegation zone and eventually finish 11th in the league.

This year, however, Eddie Howe has opted not to take his players away and instead is letting them have time with their families.

No warm-weather training for our Magpies this year

It's a nice gesture by the gaffer, sure, but howay, Eddie, we want the results that have followed the training trips in the past.

Newcastle United via Getty Images

Howe told reporters at this morning's press conference (via The Chronicle) that he feels the squad have been in 'football mode' for too long owing to the hectic fixture schedule and thinks time with families is a better option.

"We're going to give the players some time away [after Man City]. We're not going away as a team so we're going to give them some time with their families. We've had a very intense period.

"With the schedule we've had, the players have done a lot of travelling. They've been in a consistent 'football mode' so I think they need a period where they can switch off."

A rest is as good as a working holiday in the sun, as they say

We take the mick about not going out to Riyadh or Dubai or wherever, but honestly, some time at home will probably be just as good for the players right now after a gruelling first-half of the season.

Frankly, we will take anything right now to hit that reset button and get our knackered players rested and back to peak fitness, especially with the continuation of Hell's Treatment Room.

Of course we still have to make it through Saturday yet. Yay!