Time for talking is over, promotion is all down to United now

RAFA Benitez has revealed what he told Newcastle United’s players in the aftermath of their deflating defeat against Ipswich Town.

Benitez allowed players some time off to clear their heads, but Newcastle have worked solidly over the weekend to prepare for the game against Preston they know will get them promoted if they win.

When asked what he had told his players this week, Benitez said: “My message from the training session of the week was the same: concentrate on our job and keep doing well like we did against Leeds. “If we play at this level, we can beat anyone. “It’s so simple. It depends on us. “We can talk and talk. People can talk at home or social media or in the newspapers or web pages but the key is, it depends on us.

“If we work hard or play well or we’re a bit lucky sometimes, we can be there.”

Benitez had made five changes for the 3-1 loss to Ipswich just three days after a good show against Leeds.

But Benitez has suggested some players were in need of a rest.

He said: “When you play two games in a short time, you need to recover.

“You have players who are more tired than you were expecting.

“If something is wrong, it is not easy for them to recover. “If something is right, it’s easier. “You know if you play and you score a goal, it’s easier.

“But when you make mistakes in your head, it’s always more difficult.

“For some players, these situations are different and each one has a way to react.

“In this case we didn’t react properly and we have to do things right now.”