'Energy' put into finalising summer plans as Newcastle United go in search of FFP boosts
The Premier League season finally reaches its conclusion this weekend but for Eddie Howe and his team behind the scenes at Newcastle United the work is already well under way for a busy summer and beyond.
At his pre-Brentford press conference on Friday, Howe was quizzed over his upcoming transfer policy as well as Newcastle's summer plans on the pitch. On the topic of signing free agents, Tosin Adarabioyo and Lloyd Kelly, the Magpies chief rejected speculation either deal was close to completion.
There was, however, more detailed information given regarding the plan once the final whistle goes at the GTech Community Stadium on Sunday as Newcastle jet straight off to Australia for two friendly matches in Melbourne.
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"We will finish the game and get straight on the plane," Howe told reporters. "It's a very quick turnaround. We're focusing on this game and that has to take priority.
"Our pre-season training will start early July. We're finalising our last few pre-season games. Energy is going into that behind the scenes."
Newcastle confirmed their 2024/25 pre-season tour to Japan earlier this week, with Howe taking his side to Asia for two games against J League sides. The post-season tour of Australia has attracted a little more conversation, however, given the lengthy round trip so soon after the conclusion of a gruelling Premier League campaign.
The Daily Mail this week reported there would also be a short trip to the £850million World of Sports Adidas facility in Germany this July, shortly before the week-long trip to Japan.
The Germany jaunt could also include a friendly for Howe's senior stars. All of this while some St James' Park favourites will be taking part in either Euro 2024 or the Copa America. After such a heavy, injury-laden season, Newcastle players will be savouring every second of their holiday next month.
Howe, and the Newcastle ownership, will see the trips to Japan and Germany as beneficial for commercial relationships and to grow the brand across the globe. With FFP restrictions biting, it is vital the north east capitalise on any available revenue streams open to them.
The Australia trip is slightly different, with the Newcastle boss - and his vice captain - voicing their concern in recent weeks. Speaking this week, Kieran Trippier said: “It’s not ideal because it’s a tournament year. I understand why the club are doing it. I’ve done it at Tottenham (Hotspur) and (Atletico) Madrid but from my own experience of it – in a tournament year it’s not ideal.
“But we’re players, we’ve got to do what’s right for the club, for the club to move forward. When we’re there it’ll be good, we’ll embrace it and experience it. Hopefully it goes smoothly."