Newcastle United boss Rafa Benitez urged calm after victory over Burnley on Monday night.

It marked the Toon's third successive win.

Benitez tried to keep things in context and with West Ham up next at St James' Park, he didn't get too carried away.

He said: “I have said before it will be a long running race.

“It is long distance so we have to carry on.

“Now we have won three in a row. What does that mean? Nothing.

“We're happier and have more confidence.

“But we still have to keep winning games if we want to stay up.

“It is the same message now as when we were losing.

“Keep going, keep doing things in the same way."

Benitez made a big tactical change in the clash against the Clarets by switching to a three-man defence.

When asked why he felt the need to do so, he said: “I will keep that for me! It was clear that the two centre-forwards needed to be dealt with. We did really well. All of the players did well.

“It was a difficult game and we knew it could be tough. They are a strong team and very physical with the two strikers and a winger with pace who makes crosses in front of the full-back. We knew it could be difficult.

“The three centre-backs did a great job.

“The team pressed and started the game well.

“It was a pity for us not to score the third goal.

“But in the end to get three points against a tough team is something we can be really pleased with."