Rafa cryptic about future on Tyneside

RAFA Benitez has refused to commit to Newcastle United long term – but insists the “future will be bright” at St James’ Park if the Magpies survive this season.

Supporters have been nervous all week that the lack of an Amanda Staveley-led takeover could put Benitez’s future with the club in doubt beyond the end of the season.

But when asked on six separate occasions during his pre-Manchester City press conference, Benitez was non-committal on whether he would still be in charge next year.

“My future is tomorrow against Manchester City and that is the main thing for us,” Benitez replied when he was first asked what the collapse of takeover talks meant for his position in the long term.

Benitez was asked about whether he plans to stay on Tyneside a number of times but would not be drawn on where his long-term future lies.

He did add however that should United survive in the Premier League this season, he believes the club can progress – even under Ashley’s ownership.

“Yes, but for me the main thing is to stay in the Premier League,” Benitez replied when asked if he was still confident the club had a bright future.

“If that happens and we survive, the future will be bright.”

But pushed as to whether he and Ashley could work together to take the club forward, Benitez was a little more cryptic.

“From today until tomorrow, no, because I’m preparing the gameplan and Mike won’t help me with that,” he said with a smirk.

“In the future, you never know.”