This is when Eddie Howe will welcome back his Newcastle United players for pre-season

Eddie Howe and his Newcastle United players are enjoying a well-deserved break following their efforts during the 2021/22 Premier League season.

A remarkable upturn in form since the turn of the year, which saw Howe’s side collect 38 points - a total bettered only by Manchester City, Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur - sealed an 11th place finish, just when it looked as though relegation was a certainty.

And preparations for next season are already underway, especially now Dan Ashworth has begun his role as sporting director.

Here is what we know about Newcastle’s pre-season plans so far:

When do Newcastle United return for pre-season?

NewcastleWorld understands Howe and his players will return for pre-season on Friday, July 1.

Those who have been away on international duty, the likes of Kieran Trippier and Bruno Guimaraes, could well be handed an extra few days off.

What friendlies do Newcastle United have pencilled in?

So far, Newcastle have announced friendlies with Benfica (July 26), Atalanta (July 29) and Athletic Bilbao (July 30).

The Magpies travel to face Benfica in Eusebio Cup (kick-off 8pm) before hosting Atalanta (kick-off 7:45pm) and Bilbao (kick-off TBC) back-to-back at St James’ Park, less than 24 hours apart.

Further friendlies will be revealed in due course as the club finalises its pre-season programme.

Howe’s side were scheduled to fly to the US to compete in the Ohio Cup along with Wolves, Valencia and Villarreal but the tournament was abruptly cancelled.

Through no fault of their own, it has forced United into a change of plan.

Are Newcastle having a training camp overseas?

Howe is hoping to take his players away from the club’s Benton HQ and try out facilities elsewhere, preferably abroad.

If and when that will happen is yet to be confirmed after the US trip was cancelled.

When are the fixtures out for the 2022/23 Premier League?

The fixtures for the 2022/23 Premier League season are out on Thursday, June 16 at 9am.

When does the 2022/23 Premier League season begin?

The season begins the weekend commencing Saturday, August 6.