Eddie Howe provides intriguing insight into his meeting with Newcastle United’s Saudi Arabian owners

Newcastle United’s staff and players met with chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan and members of the Public Investment of Saudi Arabia during their trip to the Middle East.

That was confirmed by head coach Eddie Howe, who spoke to the media ahead of the Magpies’ behind closed doors friendly against Al-Ittihad later this afternoon.

Howe’s side have been based in Jeddah since Sunday evening after deciding to jet off to a week-long warm-weather training camp, 24 hours after the vital 1-0 win at Leeds United.

During their trip, United have trained every day and enjoyed a number of team-building exercises outside of the hotel, including watching Saudi Arabia’s 1-0 win over Oman in their World Cup qualifier.

It is hoped the trip will bring Newcastle’s staff and players closer together ahead of their battle to achieve Premier League safety in the remaining 17 games of the season.

And Howe revealed non-executive chairman Al-Rumayyan and PIF have also tried to play their part by meeting with the team earlier this week, where they provided a “motivational and inspirational talk “.

‘Great experience’

“I’ve spoken with the chairman (Yasir Al-Rumayyan),” Howe told reporters.

“We met him one of the days and that was a great experience to hear his thoughts on the club, his vision and how the future looks. I think the players enjoyed that, I enjoyed that.

“A lot of people around the PIF team have been here as well, so it’s been a very good experience from that side to bring everyone closer together.”

‘Motivational and inspirational talk’

When asked for details of the meeting and what was said, Howe revealed: “It was more short-term.

“There is no point looking too long-term with the players at the moment.

“It was more of a motivational and inspirational talk based on the shorter-term; the collective team spiri and the collective aims we have between now and the end of the season.

“We were all very impressed with what was said and how it was said. I’m sure the players feel very enthused and ready to work.”

‘A nice moment’

Howe continued: “It was just a nice feeling rather than any big promises or assurances. It was just a nice way for us all to spend a little time together and get to know each other better.

“That includes everybody connected with the staff, players. It was a really nice moment and we all enjoyed it.”