Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez says he is pleased with the impact of Islam Slimani during his first start for the club.

Slimani arrived in the January transfer window on loan from Leicester City. But injuries prevented him from playing a bigger role until now.

He started the 1-0 defeat against Everton at Goodison Park on Monday.

"Islam worked hard," Benitez said to reporters after the game.

"The understanding between him and the rest of the team will take some time. In terms of effort, I was happy with him."

Slimani managed 60 minutes in the game. Benitez will be hoping he can last the full 90 minutes in games till the end of the season.