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Newcastle news: Rafa Benitez sends message to players and fans after Arsenal defeat
NEWCASTLE UNITED manager Rafa Benitez wants everybody at the club to remain positive despite being winless from their opening five Premier League matches.
The Magpies have endured a very cruel run of games, which has seen them play Tottenham, Chelsea, Man City and Arsenal.
Their only point came from the 0-0 draw at Cardiff and they could drop down to bottom of the table by the end of this weekend.
But Benitez urged the players and staff to stick together in order to turn things around.
"We knew it could be like that, it is tough. We have had a game or two we could get points like against Cardiff. Where we are, we have to keep the belief the same way we did last season."
Ciaran Clark’s late goal proved too late for the hosts as goals from Granit Xhaka and Mesut Ozil earned Arsenal three points.
"We did really well first half, the feeling was we had we could get something, then we conceded an early goal, two moments of quality and it is difficult for us," Benitez added.
“First half was better, we were creating and pushing but you have to take your chances.”
Benitez has been praised for his dedication to Newcastle after receiving very little support in the transfer market.
This difference in quality between the two squads told.
”It was because their second was too early, that’s what happens when you have quality like they do, it is difficult for anyone,” he added.
“To react against a good team, you have to attack and push higher and you are more exposed. It is a pity, still we are scoring and having chances, you have to do it early.”
Once the Toon Army have played Manchester United away in October, they face a much kinder run of fixtures.
They host Brighton, Watford, Bournemouth and West Ham and travel to Southampton, Burnley and Everton.
One positive for Newcastle is that they haven’t been thumped.
On each occasion they’ve lost just 2-1 against a big six team this term which shows there is spirit within the squad.
If they can pick their heads up and regroup, then Newcastle can build some momentum as they did at times last season.