TAKEOVER CAN PUT TOON IN TOP EIGHT, SAYS RAFA

RAFA BENITEZ believes he will turn Newcastle United into a top-eight side if a takeover goes ahead. While Amanda Staveley and PCP Capital Partners continue talks with owner Mike Ashley, manager Benitez is confident that with the correct financial backing Newcastle can become a major force. ‘This club still has great potential,’ Benitez said. ‘If we do what we have to do in January and stay in the Premier League, it’s one of the teams that has to be in the top eight.’ Benitez, who wants at least four signings next month, saw his side end a run of nine winless games at West Ham on Saturday, though the fans have never turned on him. The Spaniard said: ‘The fans appreciate that I came when they were in a bad position. ‘This season they appreciate that we put the effort in every single game.’ Newcastle face Manchester City today with Pep Guardiola’s side looking for an 18th consecutive Premier League win. While some are wondering if leaders City could already be the greatest Premier League team ever, Benitez says Guardiola must first create a dynasty to be considered the best. ‘It’s too early,’ Benitez said. ‘We will have to see at the end of the season. ‘It’s a great team, yes, but the main thing is to be consistent for years, not just one or two years. I am sure if they do well, the other teams at the top of the table will spend to compete with them.’ Meanwhile, City captain Vincent Kompany is drawing on the lessons of his club’s remarkable comeback in 2012 to guard against complacency. Kompany lifted the Premier League trophy on a dramatic final day when City won the title on goal difference after trailing Manchester United by eight points with six games to go. ‘I draw on that,’ said City’s Belgian skipper, 31. ‘I’m the first guy to come in and say, “No guys, we can’t really say this or that”. We have to keep it going.’