Rafael Benitez begins arguably his toughest reign to date when he takes ailing Newcastle United to table topper Leicester City.
The goal-shy Magpies will be hoping that Benitez’ comments to The Chronicle today will be reflected on the pitch – in which Serbian hit man Aleksandar Mitrovic is the focus of the new manager’s attention. The combative forward has had a hit and miss maiden season, but Benitez has been diligent in outlining his ideas for Mitrovic’s development, with the hopes his goals will haul Newcastle out of the drop zone.Benitez said of Mitrovic, “We have had him doing some specific training with the strikers, some finishing sessions.” Against Leicester, Mitrovic and Benitez have an opportunity to showcase what kind of impact the Spaniard has had at Benton Training Ground. Though it will be tough for the Serb to take on the Foxes mean defence, the impending derby against Sunderland will be a match that, should he step up to the plate and score a goal, the fans will be forever grateful for.
Testing fixtures against Norwich and Southampton give Benitez time to assess the fluidity of his squad. They have regularly looked disjointed across the pitch, and inconsistent in their team play. Benitez said, “We have to improve in both areas, defending and attacking. If you improve defending maybe it will be easier to score more goals. “If you score more goals it’s easier to defend because you have more confidence and the other teams lose confidence.”If Benitez can install the flightless Magpies with the confidence to take off when most needed, he may be the saviour the fans will cherish for years to come. After that – the black and white progression can begin.
