Raphael Benitez: I´d rather Newcastle beat relegation rivals than Man Utd

According to Rafael Benitez, he lament that he would have taken bigger pleasure in winning one of Newcastle United's recent clashes with relegation rivals than he will from Sunday's shock victory over Manchester United.

Matt Ritchie changed the tide for Newcastle after he struck in the 65th minute at St James' Park to lift Newcastle in their plight against relegation, moving them two clear of the drop zone.

Rafael Benitez lament that a home win against Brighton and Hove Albion on December 30  or Swansea would have done even more for their chances.

He said : "I'm more happy with the points than which team they came against," he said.

"Some of the games that we've had here, we were so close and even doing well and creating chances, but we couldn't win against teams in the bottom half of the table.

"And if you're asking me what I prefer, three points against Manchester United or against another team, I would say another team because maybe we talk about a six-pointer.

"But because we couldn't do that, I am really pleased to do it today.
"It will give us more confidence when we have to play against the top sides and obviously more confidence against any team."