Rafa Benitez's third stint in the Premier League started with a defeat, but the Spaniard found a lot of positives in Newcastle United's performance in the 1-0 defeat to Leicester City.
The loss at King Power Stadium left the Magpies in 19th spot in the Premier League table, a single point behind 17th-placed Sunderland, who they face in the all-important Tyne-Wear derby this weekend.
"We did well. You could see the commitment and the passion," he said.
"There were a lot of positives and the team showed that they are convinced they can win. Every game will be important for us.
"We know our next game against Sunderland is a derby and it will be important for everyone but I have a feeling the fans are really good and they are the number 12 for the next game.
"The players have to play without anxiety. Show great commitment like today but they have to use their brain as well. We want to stay in the Premier League and the fans will help us."
