Florian Lejeune has revealed why the Newcastle players love working with Rafa Benitez and admits he move to St James’ Park to work with the United boss.
Lejeune has endured an injury-ridden first season at the club, hobbling off on his debut against Tottenham on the opening day and struggling with a foot injury that sidelined him for two months before he returned in the 1-0 victory over Manchester United last month.
The 26-year-old has played his part in Newcastle’s recent four-match unbeaten run and attributed that up-turn in form to the work Benitez is doing on training ground.
“What’s really good about Rafa Benitez is that he’s got so much experience,” the French centre-back explained to the Chronicle.
“Especially considering he has such a young team. What’s great is that he can see things that the players don’t always see.
“He is then able to guide you through situations and moments like that.”
And Lejeune admits that Benitez holds complete authority over every single player, which is a stark contrast to lack of discipline that undermined the disastrous tenure of predecessor Steve McClaren.
“We have a team of young players but all the players aim high and to progress at all times,” he added.
“And I can say that every single player listens to the coach all of the time.”
Lejeune also disclosed that he chose to sign for Newcastle from Eibar in the summer purely because Benitez was manager.
“To work with him each day is great for me,” he said. “I came to sign for Newcastle United pretty much for Rafa Benitez, which I have mentioned a few times.”
