Ciaran Clark joined Newcastle United from Championship rivals Aston Villa in the summer transfer window.
Ciaran Clark has told The Times that working with Rafael Benitez was a key reason behind his decision to join Newcastle United.
Clark moved to Newcastle from Championship rivals Aston Villa in the summer transfer window.
According to BBC Sport, the Magpies had to pay the Villans a transfer fee of £5.1 million in order to secure the services of the 26-year-old.
The Republic of Ireland international, who can play as a defender or as midfielder, has revealed that the chance to play under former Liverpool and Real Madrid boss Benitez played a huge role in his decision to move to St. James’ Park.
Clark has also outlined how working with the Spaniard feels like and how he tries to improve every player.
“He (Benitez) was a massive reason why I joined,” Clark told The Times. “That and the other players who have signed.
“I feel like I’m learning already. Every time you step on to the training pitch, he tries to improve you as a team and an individual.
“That’s something I haven’t had much of over the last few years. He picks up on everything, every little detail.”
Both Newcastle and Villa got relegated from the Premier League at the end of the 2015-16 season.
The Magpies and the Villans are among the top contenders to finish in the top two of the Championship this season.
Benitez’s Newcastle are fourth in the league table at the moment, while Villa are down in 16th position.
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