The proof will be in the pudding for Liverpool when it comes to judging whether the mid-season Dubai trip was a success or not.
Jurgen Klopp and his players have spent the best part of the last fortnight in the United Arab Emirates, largely working on the tactical and technical details that they hope will propel them firmly back into the top-four race after Christmas.
Those around the camp this past week have spoken about it being the ideal mixture of all elements of Liverpool's usual types of tours. While the initial weeks of summer are firmly fixed on commercial commitments and activities with official club partners, the latter weeks are more football-oriented for Klopp and his staff.