The Reds legend, now in charge of the Magpies, handed his former club a huge Premier League title race boost.
Rafael Benitez has always been remembered fondly at Liverpool but what he did on Tuesday night could well have elevated him much higher up the ranks of Anfield’s favourite sons.
The Spaniard famously guided the Reds to a historic Champions League victory over AC Milan in 2005 in one of the most exhilarating finals of all time, coming from three down at half time to draw level, take the game to extra time and eventually win on penalties.
Since then, Benitez continued managing Liverpool until 2010, after which he had stints at Inter Milan, Chelsea, Napoli, Real Madrid and Newcastle United, where he continues to ply his trade.
Although the Magpies have been around the lower reaches of the Premier League table this season, they claimed a shock 2-1 win over reigning champions and current challengers Manchester City.
The result at St James’ Park sees Liverpool four points clear of Pep Guardiola’s side, which could potentially increase to seven should Jurgen Klopp’s boys win Wednesday night’s game against Leicester City.
Needless to say, some Reds fans were incredibly thankful to their former manager and sent many plaudits – and even requests for statues and medals – his way on Twitter:
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