Paul Merson reveals what he'd now do if he was Rafa Benitez - This will split opinion..
Paul Merson believes Rafa Benitez should 'write off' next week's game with Man City as we have 'no chance' of winning it - and instead play our strongest possible side to beat Watford in the FA Cup tomorrow.
Merson is well known for making a fool of himself on Sky - from not being able to pronounce players names to championing old school managers and often wades in on NUFC despite a clear lack of research on Newcastle and the current situation at the club.
That said, there may be a number of Newcastle fans who agree with what he's just said.
Here's what he's had to say on Sky Sports when looking ahead to tomorrow's FA Cup clash with Watford:
It would be refreshing if Newcastle were to take the cup seriously for once, the win at Blackburn was a clear springboard and confidence boost for the team before the huge win against Cardiff. Watford, who made 11 changes in the FA Cup last time out, is a decent draw at home and a chance to progress to the last 16 and build confidence further.
However, Rafa can't win in the media - if he did 'write off' the Manchester City game I am sure he would be slaughtered, just like he was for playing so defensively against the top sides at St James' earlier in the season.
I personally think we should play full strength this weekend to continue the feel good factor on the pitch, giving us some momentum for what is going to be a tough match on Tuesday.
I don't think tired legs will make a difference against Manchester City - it is a free swing for us and with some confidence from the weekend, you never know..we might just snatch a point.
