Former Newcastle star Salomon Rondon has spoken about how he was convinced to join the club by then manager Rafa Benitez.

Rondon and Benitez were fan favorites during their time with the Magpies, despite Steve Bruce doing a relatively good job after Benitez.

Rondon scored 11 in 32 during a loan spell in 2018.

He eventually went back to West Brom as Benitez left Newcastle, and then joined Benitez at Dalian Professional FC in China.

"My story with Benitez started when he bet on me to take me to Newcastle when I had been relegated with West Bromwich Albion," Rondon told Estadio Deportivo.

"He called me and asked me if I wanted to play for his team.

"Just hearing the name of Rafa Benitez impresses you, since he is a football great and, without hesitation, I went to Newcastle, where I arrived without rhythm and without preseason, although the second part of the season was better.

"Now I thank Benitez for giving me the opportunity to work with him and his coaching staff and for continuing to nourish me with his football."