Speaking to The Shields Gazette, Isaac Hayden has praised Newcastle United boss, Rafa Benitez, for improving him as a player this season.

Last summer Hayden opted to turn down numerous Premier League offers, to move from Arsenal to Newcastle, who had just been relegated into the Sky Bet Championship.

Hayden has impressed this year at St James’ Park, making 35 appearances across all competitions and helping the Magpies to the brink of a top-flight return.

The 22-year old midfielder has praised Benitez for the faith he has shown in him, insisting he wouldn’t be the same player without the 57-year old’s guidance, he said: “For me, personally, he has improved me as a player.

“Would I be the same player if I wasn’t here? I don’t think I would be. Tactically, technically, every aspect of my game has improved. That’s also down to having game time as well.

“To get the manager’s trust is not easy, especially as a young player and especially in a team that is fighting to win promotion.

“It’s OK if you are my age playing in a team with nothing to play for. But to get that trust from him is important for me. I can only thank him for that. Hopefully, I’ve repaid him.”

Benitez’s side are currently second in the Championship table, knowing victory over Preston North End this evening, will clinch an instant return to the Premier League.

The Magpies are without a victory in their last three fixtures, but both Reading and Huddersfield Town’s defeats on Saturday have left the door open for Benitez’s men to clinch automatic promotion.

Newcastle fans… How impressed have you been with Hayden this season? Let us know in the comments!