Newcastle United are aiming to increase global appeal this week by promoting their brand in the Middle East.
The Magpies touched down in Riyadh with branded team buses awaiting to transfer them to their hotel as the likes of Miguel Almiron, Joelinton and Jamaal Lascelles saw their pictures emblazoned on the Saudia-sponsored vehicles. The players were presented with flowers and gift bags they then made their way to the Riyadh base for the week.
A midweek fan event at the Hyatt Regency was also announced last night with the week culminating with an exhibition match against Al-Hilal on Thursday evening. The United party included co-owner Amanda Staveley and loan manager and ambassador Shola Ameobi with the former striker expected to be part of the club's commercial drive in the Middle East.
Howe said last night: "We look forward to facing Al-Hilal and playing in front of our growing numbers of supporters in the region." Travelling fans were also making their way to Saudi Arabia over the weekend for an epic 4,100 mile away trip.
Howe included a clutch of players returning from injury for the trip including Emil Krafth, Mark Gillespie and Paul Dummett. The trip is United's second to Saudi Arabia in 2022.
Newcastle used the trip to Jeddah last season as a launchpad to Premier League survival as they left in the relegation zone but finished the campaign in 11th. Remarkably, they set off for this trip in third place in the top flight.
Howe told the club website last night: "Our trip to Jeddah in January was pivotal for us last season. It galvanised the group, and the hard work the players put in was rewarded in performances and results on our return."
READ NEXT
- Newcastle rewarded for revisiting £35m transfer target who can become 'one of the best'
- Newcastle United's World Cup stars won't be rushed back into domestic action
- Newcastle bank early advantage over 'Big Six' rivals in Champions League race
- Dan Ashworth discusses new Newcastle strategy after previous experience with Alexis Mac Allister
- Five Newcastle United players ready to stake their claim in mini pre-season with places up for grabs
