What Benitez does better than McClaren according to Dummett

Speaking ahead of Newcastle's crucial match-up with Crystal Palace, Paul Dummett has spoken to the press about his new manager Rafa Benitez and what the Spaniard offers compared with his predecessor Steve McClaren.

Speaking to the Chronicle, the defender praised the ex-Real Madrid boss in how he was turning the squad into 'better players'.

More specifically he has praised Benitez for the work he has done with the Newcastle back four.

With the Magpies conceding the second highest number of goals in the league this season (64 - only Villa have conceded more), it was imperative that a defence-minded coach in the mould of Rafa was brought into the club. After a clean sheet against Swansea and what should have been a clean sheet against Manchester City this month, there's evidence to suggest that what's being taught on the training ground is actually having a positive effect on match days.

“For me personally he talks about the positioning with each player and he works with the back four a lot.

“He tells us to be together and be more compact. Any manager has different opinions and growing up as players it can only help you learn from them. It will help me get better as a player too.”