Newcastle manager Eddie Howe says Benfica boss Jose Mourinho is a “visionary” as they prepare to meet in the Champions League.

Howe goes head-to-head with the two-time winner of the competition on the touchline in a group game at St James’ Park on Tuesday.

He rates Mourinho as one of the greatest managers of all time after the former Chelsea, Manchester United, Inter Milan and Real Madrid boss left a “big impact” on him.

“He is someone I hugely admire, having come up against him before in the Premier League,” Howe said.

“As a younger coach, I really admired the teams he built at Chelsea, in particular.

“He is definitely a visionary – someone that broke the mould in terms of how you manage and the different ways to do things, and then followed his success through different clubs and leagues. Incredible, really, what he’s achieved in his career.

“It’s always a great opportunity for any club to go up against one of his teams. I’m looking forward to the challenge immensely, and I think it’s going to be a great game.”