Newcastle United have performed valiantly under the guidance of Rafael Benitez this season, with the Spaniard guiding his side from 18th in the standings to the top-half after a recent upturn in results.
The Magpies have excelled on a four-match winning streak, surpassing their pre-season target of 40 points with victory over Europa League semi-finalists Arsenal last weekend- putting Newcastle on the brink of securing their top-flight status.
Newcastle have just five games to go in the campaign as they chase a top-half finish, with The Chronicle detailing how Benitez’s performances have put him on a five-man shortlist for the Premier League’s Manager of the Year award.
The stand-out favourite to clinch the honour is Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola, recently crowned champion, whilst Burnley’s Sean Dyche, Bournemouth’s Eddie Howe and Brighton’s Chris Hughton are also named as contenders.
Dyche’s Lancashire side are chasing a spot in Europa League football next season, whilst Howe and Hughton have both guided their clubs to safety.
