Rafa Benitez will miss Newcastle's clash with Swansea at the Liberty Stadium.

The Spaniard underwent surgery during the international break to remove an infection from a hernia wound.

There had been suggestions he would travel to south Wales away from his players and coaching staff.

But Newcastle announced Benitez will not be present with No.2 Paco Moreno set to take charge.

He will be in regular contact with Benitez throughout the encounter as Newcastle look to secure their second win of the season.

Benitez on the touchline (
Image:
Ian MacNicol)

The Magpies beat West Ham 3-0 before the international break after a disappointing start.

Benitez had hoped to make a number of signings late in the transfer window but failed to add any new faces in August apart from Joselu, who scored against West Ham.

The Spaniard has been linked with a move to the London Stadium, should West Ham part with current boss Slaven Bilic.