Rafa Benitez reacts as Newcastle qualify for the Champions League

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Former Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez has issued a message of congratulations after the Magpies qualified for the Champions League on Monday night.

Eddie Howe‘s side drew 0-0 with Leicester City, which was enough to guarantee a top four place in the Premier League this season. It prompted wild scenes inside St James’ Park, while Joelinton even had a go at singing the Champions League anthem as he gatecrashed Dan Burn’s post-match interview.

It is a good job he is a fabulous footballer, because Joelinton’s vocal chords left a lot to be desired. Luckily, Toon fans will hear the real thing next season.

It is a phenomenal achievement for the club, and it just shows what a little bit ambition behind the scenes can do. Howe has had the backing of the owners, with everyone pulling in the same direction since Mike Ashley’s departure.

That is not a luxury that Benitez was afforded, and the Spaniard has now commented on his former employers returning to the Champions League for the first time since 2003.

Rafa Benitez sends his ‘congratulations’ to Newcastle United

The 63-year-old has taken to his official Twitter account to congratulate Newcastle United on an incredible season.

He wrote: “Congratulations to all involved. Howay the lads!”

This is the potential that Benitez spoke about

For a long time, Rafa Benitez was all Newcastle fans had. While the club was going nowhere off the pitch, he brought fresh hope on it. He spoke about where the club could go with the right ambition and investment, but it was never forthcoming.

He was well aware that he was in charge of a sleeping giant, but now it is awake and roaring louder than ever. It is justification for Benitez, who knew this was possible. However, it is Howe that has achieved it.

The former Bournemouth man is the latest manager to be idolised on Tyneside, just like Benitez was. Fortunately, Howe has an environment that he can be successful in, which means nights like Monday should become a regular occurrence inside St James’ Park.