Rafael Benitez to delay decision on Newcastle United future until next spring

Rafael Benitez has hinted that his future as Newcastle United manager will become clearer after the January transfer window.

The 58-year-old has repeatedly batted away questions about his long-term plans at St James' Park following a summer of frustration both on and off the field.

Benitez had to work with one hand tied behind his back in the transfer window, leading to concerns from supporters that the Spaniard will move on when his contract expires next June.

Speaking ahead of Sunday's clash with former club Chelsea, though, Benitez stressed that he has yet to make up his mind.

"Obviously I would like you to park this [questioning about my future] for now because it doesn't change a thing," he told reporters. "As a manager, what do I want to do? To win every single game I can. Can I change my squad from now to January?

"No, so it won't change anything in terms of my approach for games and what players and fans are expecting. I have to put everything in the training sessions and games to be sure we can compete and win for now. Then maybe we can talk about that in April.

"In April it will maybe have a massive impact if you are not signing a contract because we will be coming towards the end of the season. But now I think we have plenty of time to talk about football, and that's it."

Newcastle made more than £20m net profit on deals during the summer transfer window.