The Magpies ‘keeper says morale is better than when Newcastle were qualifying for Europe.
Newcastle United Manager Rafael Benitez
Newcastle United goalkeeper Rob Elliot has told the Chronicle that optimism at the club is the highest it has even been.
The Magpies were on something of a downer at the end of last season as they were relegated to the Championship.
However, their ability to keep hold of manager Rafa Benitez proved a major boost to confidence with many hoping he would help return the club to the Premier League at the first time of asking.
After a busy summer of buying and selling, they have enjoyed a strong start to the season, sitting third in the table and three points away from first place.
Dwight Gayle celebrates scoring the fourth goal for Newcastle United
St James Park is one again a happy place and Elliot says confidence is actually higher than when the club were qualifying for Europe.
“The club is in a better shape now and the supporters are right behind the players and the manager. It’s all running smoothly now,” he told the Chronicle.
“The club is more positive than when we were fifth and going into the Europa League which is strange. I have never experienced it.”
Newcastle United players huddle before the game
Benitez will now be keen to maintain that positive atmosphere around the club for as long as possible.
They have settled into life in the Championship well but have learned quickly that it will not be a walk in the park.
Sitting in third place in the table at this moment in time is a strong position to be in but they will be keen to get into the automatic promotion spots quickly.
They return to action this weekend when they take on seventh-placed Brentford at St James Park.
Newcastle United Manager Rafael Benitez
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