Newcastle boss Chris Hughton believes his players are deserving of their extended break during the international week.
Hughton has given his squad the weekend off after a run of three successive victories which has seen them move back to the top of the Championship.
"The lads have shown tremendous character to win three on the bounce after those two defeats," Hughton told the club's official website.
"We've got a bit of a break now and the lads can enjoy it because they deserve it.
"We've got two thirds of the season left to play but we're sitting top and intend to stay there."
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