Newcastle United announce second World Cup break friendly as Rafa Benitez signing returns

Newcastle United will welcome La Liga side Rayo Vallecano to St James’ Park in December during the World Cup break. It is the second friendly the Magpies have announced with Eddie Howe’s side already scheduled to face Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia.

The Spanish side visit Tyneside on Saturday, December 17 and will form a part of Howe’s preparations for the resumption of the Premier League season following a five-and-a-half-week to accommodate a Qatar World Cup.

Former Magpies defender Florian Lejeune plays for Vallecano. Tickets, priced at £20 for adults and £10 for concessions, will go on sale to all supporters online at book.nufc.co.uk from 10am GMT on Friday 4 November.

While several first team players could be at the World Cup, those players not called up will be embarking on a mini pre-season to retain their fitness levels.

Howe’s side take on Al-Hilal on December 8 before hosting Vallecano. United then return to competitive action on Boxing Day when they travel to Leicester City on Boxing Day.