Newcastle United moved to the top of the table with a win over Barnsley earlier this week.
Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez
Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez has told the Chronicle that he will tell his players not to feel the pressure of being in first place ahead of this weekend’s clash with Ipswich Town.
The Magpies moved into first place in the Championship table earlier this week following the win over Barnsley.
They will be keen to hold onto that place for the rest of the season, starting with a win over Mick McCarthy’s side on Saturday.
Of course being at the top of the table comes with added pressure, especially from the fans, who are keen to see their side make an immediate return to the Premier League this year.
Newcastle manager Rafael Benitez
Benitez wants to avoid that, though and says he will tell his players to avoid it before the game.
“I wasn’t worried about the table before and I’m not now,” he told the Chronicle.
“For us to play at home is always the same, we have a big crowd behind us. I will tell the players not to feel any pressure. Obviously, we want to do well.”
Newcastle United Manager Rafael Benitez
Top of the table is exactly where Newcastle were expected to be this season following their relegation from the Premier League.
Many had them tipped to be automatic promotion favourites, especially following the rebuilding job they did in the summer transfer window.
It has taken them 13 games to get there but when asked if it changes anything for his team, Benitez insists it does not.
“No, not really. From the beginning people said Newcastle would be at the top,” he added.
“They said it would be easy or we will go up. Teams will want to put in extra against us. For us, we want to stay top of the table and we have to be confident.”
Newcastle United Manager Rafael Benitez
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