Ciaran Clark started Newcastle United’s last match with a visible facial injury.
Rafael Benitez has joked in the Chronicle that Newcastle United defender Ciaran Clark is like Rocky Balboa.
Clark cut his head during Newcastle’s match against Queens Park Rangers, but that did not stop him featuring against Derby County last weekend.
The former Aston Villa man started in Newcastle’s defence, with a black eye, and put in a fearless display as the Magpies beat Derby 1-0.
And Benitez has made Clark an example for the rest of his Newcastle squad, as he wants his players to go through the pain barrier for the club.
“I was joking with Ciaran Clark when he cut his face,” the Spanish boss said. “You get cut, the blood comes out and they you fight.
“You have to be like Rocky! Ciaran has done that already.
“We have a lot of players with knocks and little injuries but they are still pushing.
“It’s what I want to see. The players, fans and staff must also stay behind the team.”
Newcastle are currently on top of the Championship table, after Brighton slipped up against Brentford in midweek.
The Magpies are now one point ahead of Chris Hughton’s side, and appear to be in a very strong position to earn promotion.
Newcastle are next in action this weekend, when they take on Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux.
If Benitez’s men can pick up the victory, they could establish a nine point cushion inside the automatic promotion spots.
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