Benitez: Derby County - promotion rivals

Rafa Benitez described Saturday's game against Derby as a 'difficult game' during an intense pre match press conference.

Newcastle United's next fixture against Derby County marks the return of former boss Magpies manager Steve McClaren. Since his arrival, McClaren has steered the Rams into sixth in the playoffs position and Benitez feels his side will be in for a tough time at St. James Park on Saturday.

Benitez provided a message to all Newcastle supporters after speculation suggested he could leave the club following their lack of recruitment in the January transfer window.

Benitez urged fans to concentrate on promotion and continue to back his players for the remainder of the season.

Brighton's loss to Huddersfield Town on Thursday gave Newcastle the opportunity to regain top spot against McClaren's men. The former Chelsea boss still remains confident that his side has enough talent in his squad to gain promotion this season.

Benitez missed out on the chance to bring Andros Townsend back to Tyneside in the January transfer window. The Spaniard is now focussed on the players he has available to him rather than dwell on what might have been had he secured the England internationals services.

Benitez feels the Derby game will come too soon for Chancel Mbemba. The Congolese defender returned from the African Cup of Nations but may not be risked against the Rams. Dwight Gayle is still improving his fitness after his hamstring injury that has seen him sidelined for the last three matches.