Benitez : Newcastle is no threat
Liverpool are clinging onto Manchester United’s coat-tails at the top of the Barclays Premier League while Newcastle are in the relegation zone, three points adrift of fourth-from-bottom Hull City.
The Merseysiders turned in one of their best performances of the season against the Magpies in December when they won 5-1 at St James’ Park.
However Benitez knows they are likely to face a much tougher test at Anfield on Sunday in a match vital to both clubs.
“We were really good that day,” said Benitez. “We were in control, we had a lot of chances and their goalkeeper (Shay Given) was man of the match. It was nearly a perfect game for us.”
Steven Gerrard, who has missed the last four matches with a groin injury, is set to return to face Alan Shearer’s side, but Manchester United could be six points clear of Liverpool at the top if they win at Middlesbrough on Saturday.
But whatever United’s result, Benitez knows his side simply have to win if they want to hold onto any hope of landing the title – and he insists a display similar to the one which blew Newcastle away last time the sides met is the requirement again.
“It will be different this time because they have a different manager and are in a different situation,” he added.
“And clearly they need to win, so I don’t think they will be waiting and waiting for a draw. They have quality players in attack.
“We just need to keep doing our job and we have the confidence to keep winning games. If Manchester United make a mistake then we have to be ready, so we must take three points from each game and then see what happens. We will not give up until the end.” – EPL
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