And Steve Bruce has been talking injuries, Andy Carroll, the return of Dwight Gayle, contracts, transfers and the January window.
Here’s EVERYTHING the Magpies head coach discussed at his Benton press call this morning.
1. On Martin Dubravka's new SIX-year deal
"Martin has a had a wonderful few months in that respect I am delighted. In the few months I've worked with him he is a very good goalkeeper. It is essential for any big club to have a good keeper, that is the No 1 position. We're delighted to have tied him down." | Getty Images Photo: Jan Kruger
2. Bruce talks a possible return for Matt Ritchie
"Matt Ritchie has bounced around the training ground all week." | Getty Images Photo: Catherine Ivill
3. Florian Lejeune back on the bench?
"When you have a team with a clean bill of health you can pick up a couple. The good news is Florian has trained." | Getty Images Photo: Stu Forster
4. Fabian Schar OUT
"Fab Schar has a sore knee which he has played with for two or three weeks. Last Saturday became too uncomfortable. He will miss the weekend." | Getty Images Photo: Paul Harding