Rafael Benitez defends Matz Sels following error against Aston Villa

Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez has told goalkeeper Matz Sels to "ignore" the criticism he received following his error during Saturday's Championship draw with Aston Villa.

The 24-year-old summer signing was forced to delete his Twitter account after his mistake at Villa Park allowed the hosts to rescue a 1-1 draw against the Magpies.

However, Benitez insists that Sels was "fine" after the match and urged the Belgian to continue trying to improve in the coming weeks.

"It's better to ignore that and concentrate on your football - that is what you can improve. Ignore that, listen to your goalkeeping coach and that's how you can improve and make yourself better," he told reporters.

"He was fine. They are professionals and they have to deal with this kind of situation. He has done well in some games. In other games - like me, like anyone - you make mistakes.

"He is a young lad and he has come from another country. We know how hard it can be to settle down, but he just needs to keep working hard and trying to improve his game."

Newcastle will next take on Championship leaders Norwich City on Wednesday.