Dan Burn absence from Newcastle United’s Saudi Arabia camp explained

Dan Burn is due to link up with his Newcastle United teammates in Saudi Arabia within the next 24 hours. Eddie Howe’s men flew to Riyadh on Sunday ahead of a week-long training camp and supporters were quick to notice that the Blyth-born defender was missing from the squad photo.

NewcastleWorld understands the 30-year-old did not travel initially because of illness, however will travel separately to join the squad, who take on Saudi Pro League champions Al-Hilal in a friendly at the Prince Faisal bin Fahad bin Abdulaziz Stadium on Thursday (kick-off 5pm GMT).

Howe’s side begin their preparations for the Premier League restart, which has been paused since the 1-0 win over Chelsea at St James’ Park on November 12. They resume their campaign with a Carabao Cup last 16 encounter against Bournemouth in just over a fortnight’s time.

The Magpies return to the Middle East having visited Jeddah for a warm weather training camp in January before welcoming La Liga outfit Rayo Vallecano to Tyneside a week on Saturday.

“The break for the World Cup gives us the opportunity for a mini pre-season ahead of a crucial part of the season,” said Howe. 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.

“We will have access to world class facilities as refurbishments at our own training ground continue, and we look forward to facing Al-Hilal and playing in front of our growing numbers of supporters in the region.”