Newcastle United have arrived in Riyadh ahead of their week-long stay for warm weather training.
Eddie Howe and his staff will be without their World Cup stars but have included a sprinkling of youngsters including Dylan Stephenson, Jay Turner-Cooke and Alex Murphy. Howe also has Emil Krafth and Paul Dummett in the party as they recover from injuries.
Speaking to the club website on arrival, Howe said: "The break for the World Cup gives us the opportunity for a mini pre-season ahead of a crucial part of the season.
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"Our trip to Jeddah in January was pivotal for us last season. It galvanised the group, and the hard work the players put in was rewarded in performances and results on our return.
"We will have access to world class facilities as refurbishments at our own training ground continue, and we look forward to facing Al-Hilal and playing in front of our growing numbers of supporters in the region."
United also confirmed the kick off time for their clash with Al-Hilal. The club said: "The game against Al-Hilal, the most-decorated club in Asia and the reigning Saudi Pro League champions, will be played at the Prince Faisal bin Fahad bin Abdulaziz Stadium on Thursday, 8th December (kick-off 8pm AST/5pm GMT), and will be broadcast live, and free of charge, on NUFC TV .
"In addition to the match and training, the players will be attending meet and greet events with supporters, while there will be a fan event at the Hyatt Regency in Riyadh on Wednesday, 7th December."
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