Barrow can't wait for Rafa rumble

The Toon look certain to regain their Premier League status at the first attempt under the watchful eye of Rafa Benitez, whom has earned the respect of Barrow for his achievements in the game.

“I’ve obviously been privileged to be in offices with him when we were in the Premier League, when he was at Liverpool,” Barrow revealed.

“You talk to him, you listen to him, and you can’t help but learn from someone like that who’s had such a fantastic career.

“He probably had chances to go elsewhere last summer but stuck it out at Newcastle, and it looks like he’s going to take them back to the top.

“You can’t help but respect someone like that.

“But similar to when I was a player, you can have all the respect in the world for someone, while also enjoying the competition and the chance to get one over them.”