RAFA: FIGHTS OVER

RAFA BENITEZ has insisted his transfer “fights” are over for now – and he is 100 per cent committed to Newcastle.

The United chief makes no apologies for pushing owner Mike Ashley to get a better squad in the summer but now insists he is optimistic about Toon’s prospects.

Two wins in a row have buoyed Benitez, despite the fact he was unable to attend the Swansea victory through illness.

In his first comments on a transfer window he found frustrating, the Newcastle boss (right) said: “I am very pragmatic.

“There’s a time to fight and I was fighting to improve my team in the way I think we have to improve. Now it’s a time to help my team and improve my players.

“My commitment was already 100 per cent and is still 100 per cent, but if it was possible in this kind of situation to say it is 101 per cent, then it is.”

Benitez’s side face Stoke today. He admits to being slightly concerned when United lost their first two games back in the top flight and added: “A lot is expected of teams that have a massive support behind them.

“Sometimes they get carried away with a good or bad result but, if we lose some games, I will try to be as strong mentally.”