Everton will take advantage of a gap in their fixture list to complete a training break in Dubai this week.
The Blues will fly out to the UAE on Wednesday (February 14) following a star-studded Gala Dinner to celebrate 30 years of Everton in the Community (EITC) at St George’s Hall in Liverpool city centre on Tuesday night.
The Toffees are set to bring their entire first-team squad to Dubai, bar long-term absentees James McCarthy and likely Ramiro Funes Mori, who will stay at the club’s Finch Farm training base.
Here, we detail more information about the trip, which has yet to be officially confirmed, as the Premier League club follow the likes of Manchester United, Liverpool and Celtic in coming to Dubai in 2018:
WHY ARE EVERTON IN DUBAI?
Following Saturday’s 3-1 success over Crystal Palace at Goodison Park, the Blues’ next Premier League fixture is on Saturday February 24 at Watford.
This sizeable gap in the fixture list, aided by the fact Everton aren’t in the Emirates FA Cup, has provided the Merseysiders with the perfect chance to recharge their batteries with some winter sun.
It is anticipated the camp will last at least five days, with it being possible the Blues will have a behind-closed-doors friendly to help maintain match sharpness.
WHERE ARE THE BLUES TRAINING?
Though it is not confirmed, it is likely Everton will train at Nad Al Sheba, Meydan, known as the best training facility in the Emirate. It is owned by the ruling family in Dubai and the training complex is private, with a number of top European clubs having trained there in the past.
Indeed, Everton trained at the facility this time last year while the Red Devils spent some time there last month.
However, it should also be mentioned Sam Allardyce’s previous clubs, including Sunderland, have trained at Dubai Sports City.
WHERE ARE THE BLUES STAYING?
Situated a stone’s throw away from Nad Al Sheba, The Meydan Hotel will likely be the spot where Everton stay, given Ronald Koeman had his side based there in 2017.
The five-star hotel is ideal given stars can cycle to and from the hotel and training complex.