Rafa Benitez

Mitrovic has started just one Championship game so far this season.

The form of Dwight Gayle – who took his goal tally for the season to 11 with two strikes against Barnsley on Tuesday night – has restricted the striker's minutes on the pitch.

Mitrovic did an extra session with Benitez this week ahead of tomorrow's home game against Ipswich Town.

"He is a good professional. He wants to be fit, he wants to train harder. He knows Dwight is scoring goals and he has to keep going and wait for his chance.

“I think every day he is more mature. He has realised how difficult it is to be in a team that is doing well.