Whitbread said: "It was great news to be told that I was on the trip. Of course, I was born in America so it's really nice to be going back but more importantly it's a chance to show what I can do.
"The boss took me along on the tour last season so I could get some experience and I really enjoyed it. I never really got another chance though when the season started but I'm hoping with the change in management it may be different this time around. There's a new kind of feeling about the place. Everyone is excited about the start of the season and hopefully I'll have some part to play.
"The other lads in my position, are hopeful aswell. It's a fresh start for us all and it's important we take any chance we get to impress the new boss. It's an exciting time to be at this club. I've been working hard in training and giving it my best. Hopefully he will pick up on that, give me a chance and we'll take it from there.
"The training has been tough but that's what the boss likes and I'm sure it will pay off in games. We've been coming in twice a day but everyone has enjoyed it and there's been a real buzz about the place. He (Benitez) seems as though he's a really good coach and everyone is happy with his arrival."