Rafael Benitez has insisted that he decided to take the Newcastle United job because he is confident about the club avoiding relegation this season.

The Magpies, who parted ways with Steve McClaren yesterday, acted swiftly to appoint Benitez as their new manager on a three-year deal.




Newcastle currently find themselves in 19th in the Premier League standings with just 24 points from 28 games, with just 10 league games remaining in the season.

But Benitez, who was himself sacked by Real Madrid earlier in the season, thinks Newcastle’s squad have it in them to avoid the drop in the present campaign, something which prompted him to take the managerial reins of the Tyneside club.
 


“I’m really pleased to be here”, he told NUTV.

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“I decided to come because I knew the team could do well and stay in the Premier League.

“And that’s my challenge. I know about the fans, the city, the passion. I could see the players, I could see a lot of games and I think it’s a great team.

“I decided to come because I think we can stay in the Premier League.”

Newcastle, who have lost five of their last six Premier League outings, will next face leaders Leicester City at the King Power Stadium on Monday night.

The St James’ Park outfit lost the corresponding fixture 3-0 in November.