But since Alan Pardew dumped us out of the FA Cup and took his players away to the sun ... we haven't even SCORED never mind WON a game.
The players returned and Pardew justified the trip by saying: "We play Sunderland and while we have been away they have had two very tough cup ties (v Man Utd and Kidderminster). Our players are fit and ready for the derby, make no mistake."
Yep ... and we all know what happened there, don't we?
The Newcastle players never got out of the blocks, and the last ten minutes there was only one team pushing to score, and it was the sun-tanned guys in black and white.
However, the Hammers were struggling for form until the end of January but, ever since their plane to the United Arab Emirates was booked, Allardyce feels he has seen an improvement from his players.
Sam Allardyce: "It's already benefited us.
"Once the lads knew the trip was booked four or five weeks ago, it has been part of our turnaround.
"It was something for them to look forward to, to strive for.
"The critical need for it for every player we have is for them to get a bit of sun on their back, do a little bit of light training and ease the pressure on the mind, soul and body. They will come back refreshed."
BE WARNED FAT BOY!