Rafa has delivered smiles at St James’

THE smiles are back at Newcastle United and it’s all thanks to one man – Rafa Benitez.

His team are riding high at the top of the Championship and they travel to Hull City on Tuesday night in the quarter-final of the EFL Cup.

The Tigers may be in a higher division, but most expect Benitez to guide Newcastle to their first semi-final for 11 years.

The Spaniard wasn’t quite able to keep the Geordies in the Premier League after arriving in March, but the exLiverpool boss is leading the promotion charge, as well as developing a special rapport with the Toon Army.

Former Newcastle captain John Anderson has seen every match this season, and he can offer an expert eye on how the mood has changed at St James’ Park.

“Rafa (right) has been a breath of fresh air,” he says.

“He has bought into the club and the area in a big way.

“He sees the similarities between Newcastle and Liverpool. Football is a religion for both clubs.

“It’s a great fit and there is a good relationship between Rafa and the supporters. They feel like he’s one of them, and the club needed that.

“Ask any fan what he enjoys most and it’s winning. You’re better off winning lots of games in the Championship than losing most in the Premier League.

“Last season, the atmosphere was dead at matches and there was doom and gloom everywhere. Rafa has brought the smiles back because everyone wants to be associated with a winning side.”

Bouncing back to the Premier League is the No.1 target, but Anderson feels Newcastle have a real opportunity to reach the two-legged semi-final in the New Year.

“The main priority is the league,” he affirms. “But Rafa made his name in the cups and it’s been great for everyone to have a decent run.

“Rafa will make a few changes because he always does but it will be a strong side. He’ll pick a team that he believes can get through this tie.”