Ciaran Clark says Newcastle United’s players have “bought into” Rafa Benitez’s rotation policy.
I have news for him - they don't have much of a choice!
Benitez, mindful of the physical demands of a 46-game Championship season, has repeatedly changed a winning team this season in an attempt to manage the workload of his players.
Ciaran Clark said: “I think all the lads have bought into it.
“That’s what the manager does. There’s a lot of competition for places.
“I think we all know that if you haven’t been picked, it’s probably not for the reason you haven’t done well, it’s probably for the reason to get fresh legs in there and keep you fresh for the next game.
“In the long term, that will help us in our bid for promotion.
“It’s good to have a big squad and to have quality players fighting for spots in the team.
“Everyone fully understands it.”
Clark opened his account in front of United’s 3,005-strong following at Loftus Road. The 26-year-old defender said: “It was nice to get the goal. First of all, as a defender, you try to make sure you keep goals out and keep clean sheets, but it’s always nice when you get on the end of one.
“I think half the squad scored that night! It was fantastic to get on scoresheet, but the result was the most important thing.
“We need to try concentrate on the games coming up.”