Rafael Benitez coy over future after leading Newcastle United to promotion

Rafael Benitez

London: Rafael Benitez tantalisingly declined to confirm whether or not he will lead Newcastle into Premier League battle next season as he celebrated promotion back to the top flight.

The Magpies' 4-1 home victory over Preston ensured their stay in the Championship lasted just one season, with the club becoming the second relegated side to go up at the first attempt.

But asked if he would still be at the helm in August, Benitez - who signed a three-year contract in May last year - said: "You never know, that is football. But I am really pleased here, very happy and very proud of everything we have achieved. Hopefully we can put in the basement to do something that will be a guarantee for the future too. Now it's the time to enjoy, but I am sure that if we do the right things, we have to prepare everything to be strong enough for the Premier League. But we have to play another two games and see where we are," Benitez said.

Benitez's comments were perhaps a hint to owner Mike Ashley that he will be seeking substantial backing in the summer transfer market to reshape his squad ahead of the next season.