Newcastle United ended their warm-weather training camp in Dubai with a 5-0 win earlier today.
The behind-closed doors friendly at the NAS Sports Complex saw us face Gulf United – a local side managed by former Newcastle defender Steven Taylor, who took his first head coach job in January after hanging up his boots last year.
As revealed by NUFC.com, we came away comfortable winners thanks to two strikes from Allan Saint-Maximin, a Dwight Gayle brace and a goal from Joelinton, with the game being played over three 20 minute periods this morning before temperatures soared.
They also report that Kieran Trippier and Callum Wilson were NOT involved in the game, with both watching on from the sidelines instead as they gradually step up their recovery from long-term injuries.
Here’s the short write up released on NUFC.com just moments ago:
Thursday saw the Newcastle squad round off their Dubai training camp with a behind closed doors kickabout against a local XI – managed by a familiar face.
Former Magpie defender Steven Taylor (pictured) stayed on the sidelines as his Gulf United side provided the opposition in an early morning kick-off.
Now 36, Taylor took up his first coaching role in January after leaving Wellington Phoenix in New Zealand.
The game was staged before temperatures climbed above 30 degrees and played over three 20 minute periods at the NAS Sports Complex.
Eddie Howe’s side won thanks to goals from Allan Saint-Maximin (2), Dwight Gayle (2) and Joelinton.
Although both players were present at the training camp, neither Kieran Trippier or Callum Wilson featured in the game as they continue their post-op rehabilitation.
