Rafa Benitez Explains Why He Took Mitrovic Off Yesterday

As reported by the Chronicle, Rafa Benitez has given his reasons for taking Aleksandar Mitrovic off at half time yesterday.

Mitrovic had given Newcastle the lead against Wolves but was substituted at half time, Rafa gave his reasons why after the game, saying: “We complained about the penalty that wasn’t given too. After the penalty he had a yellow card and was under pressure.

“In the end I am pleased because he got the winning goal because he was working so hard. I took him out because with the pressure of the fans on top of him I think it was important to protect him and the team.”

“I was not thinking about the next game, I was thinking about this one and keeping 11 players on the pitch.”

“Also we needed to have a certain type of game in the second half after being 1-0 up we knew they’d be on top and there would be space behind as well.”

Rafa was also full of praise for Wolves, adding: “They were dangerous in the first half from crosses because they were winning a lot of second balls. When we managed the situation in the second half and controlled it better.”

“They played long balls into the strikers and it was easier for our centre-backs as they can defend straight balls. It was easier for us to play on the counter attack.”

 

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