Newcastle face United on Sunday in a six-pointer in the race for the top four. The Toon Army will be hoping to enact revenge on Erik ten Hag’s side following their 2-0 defeat in the Carabao Cup previously, though a win would still mean that they remain below them in the table on goal difference.

Howe’s side headed to Dubai at the start of the international break to embark on a relaxation period as well as allowing the squad to train in a different environment, though they are back in Tyneside now.

“Early in the week, there was a bit of relaxation for the Players,” Howe told NUFCTV, “As always with international breaks, you can’t keep them going the full time. It’s been a busy spell of games so this was a chance to enjoy the sun and each other in a different way. But we’re quickly back to work because we’re now preparing for Manchester United.”