‘BENITEZ HAS TO STAY AND REIGN OVER

RAFA BENITEZ has got to be locked into a long-term deal at Newcastle by a new owner.

That’s the view of former club favourite Warren Barton, who was part of the Kevin Keegan side that came within a whisker of winning the title in 1995/96.

Now, with Mike Ashley finally looking as though he could sell the club, Barton (inset) is optimistic that the future could be far brighter – and he can’t wait to see what the Spaniard can produce, given proper financial backing.

Barton said: “Rafa proved last season what an asset he is.

“He got a team of very average players into a mid-table position. He hasn’t had any money, but they’re still in a respectable position.

“If Rafa is given some money and some real backing then Newcastle can be very competitive.

“This is a huge club and the people here are so passionate about their football – if you’ve got some money, then why wouldn’t you buy it?

“It’s now over 20 years