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Newcastle United: How Rafael Benitez turned relegation into promotion

Newcastle United's return to the Premier League at the first time of asking - sealed by Monday's 4-1 victory over Preston - marks a successful first full season for manager Rafael Benitez.

The Magpies were unable to avoid the drop into the second tier last term. However, under the Spaniard, who committed his future to the club before the season started, it has been a short stay outside the top flight.

BBC Sport assesses some of the key factors behind the success.

Matt Ritchie
Matt Ritchie, scorer of Newcastle's third goal against Preston on Monday, turned down a new deal at Premier League side Bournemouth to join Newcastle

Few clubs begin life having been relegated from the Premier League with an air of optimism but Newcastle United did, in no small part to Benitez's presence.