Eddie Howe has confirmed that Newcastle United will travel to Saudi Arabia for a training camp during the winter break, but was unable to say if the team will meet leader Mohammed bin Salman.
Sportsmail exclusively revealed last week that the squad would visit the Gulf state for the first time since being taken over by the country's Public Investment Fund, in a trip that is sure to attract criticism.
Amnesty International have already said they fear the stay will turn into 'another PR opportunity for the Saudi authorities who are trying to sportswash their appalling human rights record'.