Rafael Benitez remains confident that his Newcastle United team can pick up three points against Swansea City on Saturday afternoon, despite losing three defenders.
Fabricio Coloccini, Steven Taylor and Daryl Janmaat will all miss the crucial tie on Saturday after the Newcastle captain “had a ‘reaction’ in training.”
The Magpies’ defence could see a partnership of Jamaal Lascelles and Chancel Mbemba, which might well mean that Taylor has played his last game for Newcastle.
Newcastle United need four wins, says Benitez
Benitez’ has been in charge of Newcastle for just five weeks after taking charge from Steve McClaren at the beginning of March.
The Spaniard remains confident that his side can get a result against Swansea, but insisted that the visitors “have confidence” as “they aren’t at risk of relegation,” and so Francesco Guidolin’s side “will play football.”
“We have to have confidence,” Benitez told reporters. “It’s massive for us, crucial for us. We have to start winning games.
“In training sessions, that team is doing well. Now is the time to show it and play as a team on the pitch.”
Benitez does not “see fear in the [Newcastle] players,” but he knows “they’re upset and disappointed” with the recent results.
The Magpies are without a win in seven games, which included a 3-2 defeat against relegation rivals Norwich City, and with just six games left, each point is essential if Newcastle United are to remain another season in the Premier League.
The early kick-off in the Premier League sees Sunderland travel to Norwich City, but Benitez insisted that “other scores don’t matter,” and he’ll only be focussing on the Newcastle match.
“We have to win our game,” said Benitez. “I think we can win games and get the points we need to stay up.
“When you are fighting to stay up, you feel the pressure for sure. I am asking the team to give everything and finish without regret.”
St. James’ Park will be electric come 15:00BST on Saturday, with Benitez stating that “fans can make the difference” in a relegation battle.