Yedlin credits Benitez for his personal form improvement
Newcastle defender DeAndre Yedlin has credited Rafa Benitez’s guidance as part of his footballing intelligence as a key factor in his personal improvement in form.
Last season, Yedlin struggled to hold down a regular spot in Benitez’s team, making just 27 Championship appearances as he competed for the right-back spot with Vurnon Anita.
However this season, the 24-year old American has been a key player for the Magpies, missing just four Premier League games this season.
The former Tottenham and Sunderland defender believes his recent upturn in form comes down to Benitez, as well as an increase in maturity and experience which comes with him having played more often this season.
Talking to NBC Sports, Yedlin said;
It is based on what the coach likes and prefers but I think defensively I’ve just gotten a better understanding of when to go, when to stay, how aggressive to be and realising what is around me.
It’s the whole understanding of the game which has become better and that comes with maturity and experience.