Benitez - will the smile return tomorrow?

Rafael Benitez today insisted that victory over PSV would not only guarantee top finish in the Champions League group, but could also have a direct financial impact on the club's season.

In today's press conference Rafa insisted footballing priorities dictated the need to finish top:

"I want to finish first but you never know what to expect," said Benitez.

"Teams could be poor now but buy in January and be much better when the last 16 comes around in a few months."

He added: "Their form, money and players can change so it is hard to predict, but we need to finish top for our own confidence.

"In front of our supporters we win, we score plenty of goals and we are happier. We need to show confidence and show people you are good enough."

Rafa then stressed the importance in terms of the financial side:

"The Champions League is important for two reasons. People recognise you all around the world if you play well in the Champions League, they see you as a great team and a big club and that is important.

"But also, it earns you a lot of money. And you know you can continue winning if you can bring in that money. That way you can be thinking about the future."

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