Federico Fernandez admits that Newcastle United need to make the most of their congested pre-season schedule.
The Magpies polished off Crewe in a 3-0 victory at their York training camp, but the encounter came at a cost as Dwight Gayle hobbled off with a knee injury to leave concerns over the club's frontline going into the new campaign.
United face a friendly game with Barnsley at the club's training centre this weekend with the trip to West Ham in early September fast approaching.
Fernandez said: "It's important as we don't have much time to prepare.
"We need to get fit quickly and be back with the ball.
"We need to keep working and focus on the next couple of friendlies.
"We only had three weeks so we didn't lose too much fitness.
"We need to continue working on preparation and be ready for the friendly games."
Fernandez weighed in with a couple of important goals last season in wins over West Ham and Southampton and impressed so much that Steve Bruce extended his contract.
The former Argentina international netted against Crewe to start his summer in style after latching on to Dan Barlaser's delivery from a corner.
Fernandez added: "It's always nice.
"I got it from the lad's corner, I was in the middle of the penalty area and it was really good contact.
"I was happy to score."
After a week in York, Newcastle now head back to their Benton base to continue their preparations for the 2020/21 campaign.
Fernandez, speaking to the club's TV channel, added: "It's been brilliant.
"They are amazing facilities to work for the week and clear the mind a little bit.
"We are focused on the Premier League."
