Jamaal Lascelles proved Newcastle United's matchwinner against Swansea City on Saturday.

Newcastle gave absent manager Rafael Benitez the perfect pick-me-up with a 1-0 victory at Swansea. Skipper Lascelles capped a fine display that included an excellent goal-line clearance by powering home Matt Ritchie's 76th-minute corner.

The three points will come as a timely tonic for Benitez, who was recovering at home after being laid low by an infection following recent hernia surgery.

Newcastle assistant manager Francisco de Miguel Moreno told BBC Sport that Benitez would return to the club later this week.

"He wanted to attend but the weather conditions were not the best," said De Miguel Moreno. "He has been active in the game and kept in touch with us throughout the game.

"After the game, Rafa rang us and congratulated all the team because they did a fantastic job. He said 'we are now under way'.

"We need Rafa back as soon as possible. This week he will join us, probably on Tuesday."