Relief for Benitez as Newcastle crush Hammers

AFP, NEWCASTLE: Newcastle United put a smile back on Rafael Benitez's face as new signing Joselu inspired their first win of the season in a 3-0 success against West Ham United on Saturday.

Frustrated by Newcastle owner Mike Ashley's failure to back him in the transfer market, Magpies boss Benitez hinted that he doesn't see his long-term future at St James' Park. Benitez has had to make do with a series of low budget deals, prompting suggestions the former Liverpool and Real Madrid manager is on the verge of quitting.

But, with the transfer window closing next week, Benitez received some much-needed evidence that his squad are capable of competing in the Premier League.

Joselu scored Newcastle's first league goal of the season in the first half and late efforts from Ciaran Clark and Aleksandar Mitrovic wrapped up the points.

While Benitez finished the afternoon with his spirits lifted, West Ham manager Slaven Bilic was down in the dumps after his side's third successive league defeat left them bottom of the table.

Relief for Benitez as Newcastle crush Hammers

AFP, NEWCASTLE: Newcastle United put a smile back on Rafael Benitezs face as new signing Joselu inspired their first win of the season in a 3-0 success against West Ham United on Saturday. Frustrated by Newcastle owner Mike Ashleys failure to back him in the transfer market, Magpies boss Benitez hinted that he doesnt see his long-term future at St James Park. Benitez has had to make do with a series of low budget deals, prompting suggestions the former Liverpool and Real Madrid manager is on the verge of quitting. But, with the transfer window closing next week, Benitez received some much-needed evidence that his squad are capable of competing in the Premier League. Joselu scored Newcastles first league goal of the season in the first half and late efforts from Ciaran Clark and Aleksandar Mitrovic wrapped up the points. While Benitez finished the afternoon with his spirits lifted, West Ham manager Slaven Bilic was down in the dumps after his sides third successive league defeat left them bottom of the table.