Newcastle attacker has benefited from Rafael Benitez’s guidance.
Newcastle United attacker Ayoze Perez has revealed that manager Rafael Benitez has helped him to become stronger mentally.
Perez admitted that he has endured some difficult moments at Newcastle and previously struggled in such situations but he explained that Benitez has helped him to become much more focused on football.
As reported by the club’s official website, Perez said: “Mentally, he has been key for me – I needed it. I needed that bit of work to be stronger mentally. I used to complain, and think things you shouldn’t think.
“With Rafa, in this case, he makes sure people forget about that, and focus on football. Whatever mistake, anything that happens, cannot affect us in the wrong way. He’s always trying to make sure we’re focused on football, and that’s it. The team has improved a lot in that way.”
It has been a difficult season so far for Perez – he has scored just once in the Premier League and has found himself out of the starting line-up in recent games.
However, the Spaniard is remaining positive and will hope to quickly re-establish himself as an important part of Benitez’s plans.
Although he isn’t a prolific goalscorer, Perez is effective at linking up play and getting into dangerous attacking areas.
Newcastle, who have lost their last four Premier League games in succession, will be determined to return to winning ways when they travel to face West Bromwich Albion, who are without a permanent manager, tomorrow night.
Benitez’s side have fallen to 14th place in the table and know that they must improve significantly, especially defensively, if they are to get out of their current predicament.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
