Newcastle boss Rafa Benitez calls for three points at 'great' Liverpool

Newcastle manager Rafa Benitez has told his players to believe they can beat his "great" former side Liverpool.

Benitez, who managed the Reds from 2004 to 2010, acknowledges the strength of Jurgen Klopp's side, but has warned that will not deter Newcastle from fighting for three vital points following on from their 3-0 win over Swansea and 1-1 draw with Manchester City at St James' Park.

"Before the game you always have to think about getting three points. It doesn't matter about the name of the rival," said the Spaniard ahead of his return to Anfield on Saturday.

"Our record against Manchester City was quite negative but we fought with the belief we could get three points. Liverpool will be exactly the same.

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"I know [Liverpool] are doing well. They have a great team, a great manager and the atmosphere is fantastic. But we have to go there and try and get three points because we know that we can do it.

"The reaction of the team and the way that we played the last two games, the intensity, passion and character they put on the pitch, means that these players believe. I think everybody has the same feeling that we have to fight. "

The former Real Madrid manager defended dropping Georginio Wijnaldum and Jonjo Shelvey for Tuesday's draw with Manchester City and believes squad rotation has ignited positive competitiveness within his side.

He added: "The competition between players is really important, especially at the end of the season when you have so many important games.

"If they realise that they are key players, we are talking about Gini Wijnaldum or Jonjo Shelvey, the reaction of these players has been really good. They are working hard and they have to compete.

"They know my idea and in the end it is positive for the team because it will bring out the best from each player."

Klopp says he is looking forward to welcoming Benitez back to Anfield - and has no problem with Reds fans doing the same.

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"I really like Rafa, we have met a few times," said Klopp.

"From my point of view, if someone wants to celebrate Rafa Benitez in memory of Istanbul or whatever - he is one of the most successful managers at Liverpool - they are very welcome."