RAFA: IT IS TOUGH BUT WE’LL COPE

RAFA BENITEZ admits Newcastle face a nightmare fixture list.

The Geordies are under the cosh until mid-october with Chelsea, Manchester City, Arsenal and Manchester United to play.

There is a further headache on the horizon after defender Deandre Yedlin limped off late on with a damaged knee.

Benitez (below) was encouraged by the way Newcastle stayed in the game and created chances against Spurs.

The Toon boss said: “We have good teams to play against. If we play with this mentality, we will be OK.

“If you ask 90 per cent of people, they will say you will lose against Tottenham.

“At least you have the feeling that you can do better against the next team.

“You will not always miss your chances, and we were unlucky with the shots that hit the post and crossbar – and also with the control of Kenedy.

“The positive thing was the reaction of the team and the way we were approaching the second half.

“You have to take the positives and then hopefully we can build from there.”

Benitez made a joint statement with MD Lee Charnley and Jamaal Lascelles pleading for unity. And he explained: “I was trying to do what I said before.

“I was trying to be positive to make sure that everybody sticks together.

“We have finished the transfer window, and we have to concentrate on doing the right things for the club and the team.

“I want to say that the players that we have brought in are good players. That is my thought.”