Newcastle United boss Rafa Benítez has no concerns over new boy Florian Lejeune’s inability to speak English.

The Magpies confirmed the signing of the Lejeune last week and the defender spoke in French throughout his first interview with NUFC TV.

But Benítez has admitted he doesn’t believe that will affect his new signing's performances on the pitch.

Settling in

The Magpies boss has told Lejeune to let his football do the taking over the pre-season period - starting on Friday when Newcastle take on Hearts of Midlothian at Tynecastle, where it is expected Lejeune will make his debut.

Speaking ahead of Friday’s game, Benítez said: “He [Lejeune] can talk Spanish so it’s easy for him.

The Spaniard also revealed that Lejeune has been taking English lessons since he arrived in the country and he is “quite keen to learn.”

Reflecting on his first few days on Tyneside, Lejeune said: “It has been about trying to get to know the other players and try to improve my English and my relationship with them.”

Pre-season opener

The Magpies have sold out their 1,300 allocation for Friday’s game in the Scottish capital.

Hearts’ new signing and skipper Christophe Berra said: "They’ve just got promoted and have great players.

“In one of my last games for Ipswich we beat them 3-1 at Portman Road, so I’ve got good memories of that.

The Scottish international added that it will be a “tough game” due to the vast amount of international players United have at their disposal.

“It’s another game to build towards the first competitive game of the season,” he added.

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About the author
Adam Smith
Sports Journalism student studying at the University of Sunderland. Newcastle United fan and season ticket holder.