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Rafa Benitez press conference – Admits to selection problems for Burnley

5 years ago
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Rafa Benitez has met the media on Monday lunchtime.

The Newcastle boss speaking to journalists ahead of Tuesday night’s home match against Burnley.

It would be four Premier League wins in a row at St James Park, if NUFC can overcome Sean Dyche’s side.

Rafa Benitez not surprisingly in high spirits and speaking highly of three of Saturday’s stars in particular.

Miguel Almiron doing ‘really well’ on his home debut.

The manager believing he has been proved right not to send Sean Longstaff out on loan.

Whilst as for Salomon Rondon who finds his future up in the air just like that of Rafa Benitez: ‘We knew what we were looking for and we wanted this kind of striker. Salomon Rondon gives us mobility, strength, good in the air. He was desperate to come to Newcastle, so he is someone who has proved he can do a job for this team.’

The Newcastle boss has an embarrassment of riches and admits a dilemma as to both who he picks to start against Burnley and even those who do and don’t make the bench.

Only Rob Elliot and Ciaran Clark are out injured, though Jonjo Shelvey only started full training on Thursday.

Rafa Benitez:

“Almost everybody’s fit, we’re winning, we’re playing well, so everyone’s happy.

“It’s a problem for me because I need to make a decision in terms of squad and 11 starters.

“It’s a good problem for me.

He (Miguel Almiron) did really well (on Saturday).

“We knew he could give us pace and energy and he did it.

“Everything we were expecting from him, he did it and he did it well.

“Burnley are in form, they’re doing well.

“I’ve watched their last games and they have confidence and are a very tough and physical team.

“It will be a different test and we have to be ready for that.

I remember talking to him (Sean Longstaff) before, because everyone was saying he had to go on loan.

“We decided to keep him and I’m really pleased. At the moment, he’s doing well.

“We knew what we were looking for and we wanted this kind of striker. Salomon Rondon gives us mobility, strength, good in the air.

“He was desperate to come to Newcastle, so he is someone who has proved he can do a job for this team.”

Rafa asked about being linked to the Leicester job, yet again…:

“You know my answer…

“I am only focused on this next game and staying up.

“I understand that the issue of my contract, and the position, is something that you have to ask.”

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