If the FA do introduce new rules banning far-flung end-of-season friendlies on the grounds of player welfare, it will be welcomed by sections of Newcastle’s dressing-room.
Notebook understands several of the squad are not happy about the prospect of the post-season trip to Australia. One source described some players as ‘furious’.
We have been told the club will receive around £3million for the tour, in which they will play friendlies against Tottenham and an A-League All-Stars XI in Melbourne. There will be long-term commercial benefits, too.
However, that has not appeased some, who believe it is unnecessary on the back of a long season ravaged by injuries.