Best pictures from Benitez's first training session

Best pictures from Benitez’s first training session

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - MARCH 11: Newcastle's New Manager Rafael Benitez gestures during the Newcastle United Training session at The Newcastle United Training Centre on March 11, 2016, in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images) /

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Rafa Benitez has replaced Steve McClaren as the Newcastle United manager.

The deal was confirmed on Friday – the same day McClaren was sacked – and Benitez has got stuck into his task with relish.

He called an unscheduled day of training to asses his troops before the game against Leicester City, and his arrival has lifted the mood around the city.

The Chronicle reported that he said: “It will be a challenge not just for me and my staff but for the players, the club and the fans.

“All of us must push together in the same direction and with the same target in mind.”

That target is staying in the league, but Toon fans have been thinking about the future and what Benitez can do for the club – especially as he is in control of transfers.

Click through the slides below to see the best pictures from his first ever Magpies training session.

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