Rest can lift Magpies - Gutierrez

Gutierrez was mobbed by team-mates after his firs Magpies goal

Newcastle United winger Jonas Gutierrez says the Magpies will benefit from this week's international break at a crucial period in their Championship campaign.

Chris Hughton's men go into the break top of the table, two points clear of rivals West Brom, following Saturday's 3-1 home win over Peterborough United.

"We have 15 days to recover, to rest and to prepare for the rest of the season," Gutierrez told BBC Newcastle.

"From here to January is a very important period for us."

Capping Saturday's win was Gutierrez's first-ever Magpies goal in 45 appearances.

His dazzling run and shot after just 15 minutes opened the scoring. But, just six minutes later, the Argentina international limped off with a thigh injury after pulling up in a run on goal.

"It's not too bad," said Gutierrez, signed by Kevin Keegan from Spanish La Liga side Real Mallorca for an undisclosed fee in July 2008.

"I talked with the doctor. He told me it's not a big problem.

"With the scan they are confident I would only be out for a week to 10 days. The 15 days off gives me chance for recovery."

Newcastle are back in league action at Deepdale against play-off hopefuls Preston North End on Saturday week (23 November, 1945 GMT).