ELLIOTT: TIME TO SHINE BEFORE STARS COME TO TOON

ROB ELLIOTT has admitted Rafa Benitez’s squad are fighting for their futures.

The promoted players are facing an anxious wait to discover if they are part of the plans of the Spanish coach (left) in the Premier League.

Newcastle need to better Brighton’s results on Sunday to go up as Champions.

Elliott said: “I think there is still uncertainty. The one thing we all know is the manager has the reputation which will allow him bring in top European, or even worldclass players.

“Every single position is under threat because of that – whether it’s goalkeeper, striker, everyone.

“But that’s only good for the squad.

“I know if I’m going to have a future here under this manager, I must perform as well as I possibly can and make sure I’m on top of my game every week.

“That’s what you want from any squad.

“All the lads know that the manager obviously likes them because the manager has either brought them in, or kept them here.

“But there will be players coming in this summer, so you know you’ve got to impress and make sure you’re part of the plans going forward.”

Elliott says Newcastle have ambitions of eventually getting back into Europe.

He added: “Hopefully we will end up high up the Premier League and challenging for trophies because that’s the sort of manager Rafa is, and that’s the sort of players we want to be.”