Newcastle have brought 28 players over to Saudi Arabia for a warm weather training camp which will see them face Pro League champions Al Hilal on Thursday (5pm kick-off GMT).
For some players the trip is simply working to get back to full fitness for the return of competitive action against AFC Bournemouth in the Carabao Cup on December 21 (7:45pm kick-off). For others, it is also a chance to impress Howe and stake a claim for a place in the starting line-up.
Some players already have their positions cemented in the starting line-up given Newcastle’s impressive start to the season meanwhile other places remain up for grabs.
Here are seven players who should be looking to impress Eddie Howe while in Saudi Arabia...
5. Ryan Fraser - must impress
The left-wing position at Newcastle is currently up for grabs given a number of injury issues in attack. Fraser suffered a calf issue just before the World Cup break and has been linked with a move away from Newcastle in January. A solid week in Saudi Arabia will help boost his chances of getting back into Howe’s thoughts once competitive football returns. Photo: Jan Kruger
6. Allan Saint-Maximin - must impress
Saint-Maximin returned from injury for Newcastle last month but was unable to force his way into the starting line-up in the Premier League. His last league start came against Wolverhampton Wanderers back in August. With Alexander Isak close to returning to full fitness and Callum Wilson with England in Qatar, Saint-Maximin is one of United’s biggest attacking threats heading into Thursday’s match against Al Hilal. Photo: George Wood
7. Alexander Isak - must impress
For Alexander Isak, this trip is about bonding with his new team-mates and continuing his recovery from a thigh injury picked up in September. While he may not get on the pitch in Saudi Arabia, Howe will be paying close attention to his work in training and his attitude as the Newcastle boss looks to integrate the 23-year-old back into his first-team plans. An impressive break could be the difference between starting or being left on the bench once competitive football returns. Photo: Jan Kruger
8. Sven Botman - already impressed
Botman has established himself brilliantly on the left of Newcastle’s defence this season. The 22-year-old has helped the Magpies boast the best defensive record in the Premier League and is one of the first names on the team-sheet at the moment. Barring an injury, Botman is likely to keep his place in the side. Photo: George Wood