Emil Krafth may not play again this season after his horror knee injury suffered away to Tranmere Rovers back in August.
However, Eddie Howe wanted to make it clear he is still a big part of things for Newcastle United and the Sweden defender was one of the first names on his list for the plane that jetted over to Riyadh on Sunday. Krafth has been training in the gym and pool with some of his team-mates and has been an integral part of the group activities the Magpies have on the agenda in Saudi Arabia.
Howe told reporters in Riyadh: "We think it's really important that when we do take the team away we try and take as many people as we can and that includes staff and players.
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"Emil, yes, is going to be injured for the majority of the season if not all of it but we still feel it is important for his mental health and wellbeing that he's with us.
"He feels part of the group, I'd say our medical team are very good at that It's been great to see him, he's been close to the pitch, the gym is situated right next to it. You feel that little bit closer and a little bit more part of things. Emil, being the top professional he is, he's working very hard on his rehab."
Krafth was handed a new contract by Newcastle when the team were on pre-season in Portugal before disaster struck at Prenton Park. The 42-times capped Sweden international is contracted until 2024 at St James' Park.
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