Newcastle United boss Rafa Benitez defended his decision to hook Matt Ritchie in defeat to Tottenham.

The winger looked furious after being replaced by Christian Atsu and was caught on camera making his feelings clear in the dugout.

When asked about Ritchie's reaction, Benitez said: “It is important to try to change things when you are not winning.

“I thought we needed a little bit of good movement between the lines and maybe someone who could make the right passes to get us into one-v-one situations.

“I thought Atsu might give us some pace.

“It was not the right thing in the end because we didn't get a goal, but you have to be able to compete.

“If the reaction is to work harder, that is perfect."