Journalist Simon Bird has been speaking on Twitter about what he’s seen on and off the pitch from the Newcastle United squad in training.
The Magpies are still out in Austria undergoing gruelling double-sessions while also taking part in friendlies as Eddie Howe prepares his side for their first full season under his watchful eye and the ownership of PIF.
Under the new manager and ownership, there appears to be a newfound bond within the dressing room and squad, which was highlighted during a go-karting video that was uploaded to the club’s YouTube channel.
Bird, who is covering Newcastle’s pre-season tour of Austria, has revealed what he’s witnessed from the players on and off the pitch.
He said: “It’s been interesting to see the seriousness and intensity that’s in the camp here. They’ve had a lot of fun on their bikes this week, they’ve been cycling everywhere, they’ve had little day trips on their bikes – all good, active fun.
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“There seemed to be a little race between a few of them to the training ground this morning [Sunday], a 15-minute cycle from their hotel. As soon as the coach blows the whistle to start the training, they’ve got their boots on and then you can see their minds are switched on and they’re ready for the serious business of training.”
TIF Thoughts on feeling around the Newcastle squad…
The feel-good factor within the Newcastle camp was showcased during the second half of last season, with Eddie Howe gathering his whole team of staff and players together for pictures after victories, which went down a treat on Tyneside.
It now appears to be even stronger than before, with new additions having arrived to add depth and competition for places, and it appears that the Magpies have all the ingredients in place to cook up a storm in the Premier League this time around.