Benitez explains why he facilitated this deal

Rafael Benitez has gone on to reveal why he decided to hand goalkeeper Rob Elliot a brand new contract.

Rob Elliot was fantastic for Newcastle United last season and as a result of his exploits, the 30-year-old was even voted the club’s Player of the Year.

Despite his fine performances though, it seemed like Elliot’s future at Newcastle would be in doubt as the club purchased Belgian international Matz Sels for big money this summer.

In addition, the presence of promising youngsters Karl Darlow and Freddie Woodman led many to believe that Elliot could find himself surplus to requirements at St. James’ Park.

To quash such speculation though, Newcastle recently tied down Elliot to a brand new four-year contract and it is clear that the 30-year-old is part of the long term plans for manager Rafael Benitez.

Now Benitez has gone on to reveal that the contract offer shows his confidence in Elliot and added that the Republic of Ireland international will be a big part of the future at St. James’ Park.

Benitez said, “I’m really pleased that Rob has signed a new contract with the club. It shows our confidence in him as a goalkeeper for now and for the future. Hopefully he will be challenging for the goalkeeper position again very soon.”