Newcastle United full-back Deandre Yedlin has argued that it is vital that the club tie Rafa Benitez down to a new contract.
The Spaniard’s current deal runs out in the summer, and the majority of fans are eager to see him extend his stay on Tyneside.
Speaking to Sky Sports News, as quoted in the Chronicle (18.20), he said: “I think it’s very important [for the club to secure Benitez’s future].
“I think everyone has seen how he has brought the city together.
“Even though we may not have started the season the best, we’ve ended very well, so I think it’s very important. As we all know all the fans love him, the players love him and it would be great if he stayed.”
OPINION
It’s as plain as the nose on your face that Rafa Benitez needs to stay at Newcastle United. The Spaniard has done a remarkable job at St. James’ Park on a relative shoestring budget and the size of the task that he has accomplished on Tyneside cannot be underestimated. Without him, it doesn’t bear to think about where the Toon Army would be, and while it may be hypothetical, it’s almost certain that they would be in the second tier. For the first time in a long time, there is a real sense of positivity surrounding the side, and the Magpies must now be looking up the table as opposed to over their shoulders. With Miguel Almiron ripping up trees and a new, settled formation in use, things are brighter, but that optimism will quickly be dispelled if and when Benitez announces that he plans to walk away from the club.
