Some big breaking news in the last few minutes, with Mike Ashley confirming he is ‘very much’ hoping to keep Rafa Benitez at the club this summer – stating the Spaniard has his ‘full support’ and will receive ‘every penny’ generated by the club.
This comes from the owner in the moments following today’s 3-0 win over Chelsea, being a rare statement from the Sports Direct tycoon.
Here’s what he’s had to say in full:
“I would like to thank Rafa Benitez for his magnificent achievement this season.
“I would also like to applaud the players, led fantastically by the captain Jamaal Lascelles.
“On many occasions throughout the season they have been described as a Championship side, which I personally consider to be derogatory.
“Rafa, as always, has my full support, and contrary to some media reports that portray me as a pantomime villain, I will continue to ensure that every penny generated by the club is available to him.
“I hope very much that Rafa will remain at Newcastle United.
“Finally, I would like to thank the fans for their unrivalled support of Rafa and the team throughout the season.”
Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley has thanked Rafa Benítez, the players and the club’s supporters following the club’s tenth-place finish in the @premierleague.
Full story: https://t.co/7a5IKSRmS9 #NUFC pic.twitter.com/z3ZlH7igYM
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) May 13, 2018
The ‘every penny’ comment feels like deja vu, but it is positive to hear the owner finally speak out, being full of praise for Benitez, the players and the fans.
So, Rafa has Ashley’s ‘full support’ and WILL get money generated by the club – which would suggest a large chunk of the £125m taken in by the club this season following our 10th place finish.
What do you make of this folks??