BRING ON MORE GAMES

ISAAC Hayden does not fear a fixture overload at Newcastle United this season - despite the club’s growing fixture list.

Progress in the EFL Cup earned United a home date with Wolverhampton Wanderers in the third round at St James’ Park and a great chance to reach the last 16.

With 46 games in the division as well as the potential of play-offs and further matches in the FA Cup, Hayden insists players prefer to be involved in matches rather than training.

He told the Chronicle: “For me it is another game, I enjoy playing football and I want to play as much as I can.

“The more games there are the better for me.

“If you ask any players you would rather be playing games than training.

“So I would rather have a midweek game than training the whole week then another game on Saturday.

“It is good for momentum and good way of building team spirit.

“It gives a lot of the players a chance to play.”

Last season Hayden helped Hull City reach the fifth rounds of the FA and League Cup competitions.

He said: “At Hull it was a good way to rotate the squad.

“Some players were tired and it gives others game time so they are sharp for the league games.

“I enjoy any cup run and any game so I am looking forward to it.”