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Rafa Benitez says he knew what was coming

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Image for Rafa Benitez says he knew what was coming

Newcastle boss Rafa Benitez expected a tough, physical season in the Championship and he told a post match press conference after the Barnsley win last night that he has been proven right.

The Magpies had to fight for their right to play last night as Paul Heckingbottom’s side made it a frantic, physical contest in the first half with very little in the way of chances. Benitez prepared a squad specifically for these challenges back in the summer and he told the Shields Gazette victories, like the one last night at Oakwell, could prove pivotal in their promotion push this season:

“Obviously, a lot of people talked about the Championship and said it would be a very difficult and physical competition. We knew what was coming, and we knew we would have a lot of games like this. Rafa Benitez. If we can win matches like this, they are the games that can make a difference.”

After Fulham came from 2-0 down to draw 2-2 with promotion rivals Norwich City at Craven Cottage last night, Newcastle are now top of the Championship for the first time this season. David Wagner’s Huddersfield side however could go level on points at the top if they beat Preston North End in their match away at Deepdale this evening.

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