Rafa Benitez enjoyed the view from his sofa as Newcastle turned his phone link between the Wirral and Wales into a hotline to heaven.

Benitez, recovering at home from an operation and advised not to travel to the Liberty stadium by doctors’ stayed in touch with his coaching staff by mobile phone.

And in his absence, captain Jamaal Lascelles’ header 13 minutes from time clinched back-to-back Premier League wins for the Toon.

His fitness coach Miguel Moreno revealed: “Rafa has been quite active, speaking to one of the staff during the game, and that has worked. Everyone has contributed it was fine.

“He rang us straight after the game and congratulated everybody, especially the players, who did a massive job, and he is very happy with the performance.

A towering header from Lascelles won the game (
Image:
PA)
Lascelles spoke to Benitez on the morning of the game (
Image:
Action Images via Reuters)
Benitez was absent, but still giving his instructions (
Image:
West Ham United FC)

“We are very glad because we played the game very well. Jamaal Lascelles has the spirit of a captain, without a doubt. He manages everything so well and is involved in all situations.

“But we need Rafa back as soon as possible and we think he will join us this week, possibly on Tuesday.”

While three points on the road was a triumph for Benitez and his assistants Antonio Gomez, Mikel Antia and Moreno’s game plan by committee, the Newcastle boss also made sure his skipper was in a rabble-rousing mood.

Lascelles said: “The manager rang me this morning and told me to make sure the boys were on it.

“We have set a standard now and hopefully he gets well soon as gets back with us.”

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