Rafa Benitez did not hold any dialogue with Mike Ashley after the 2-1 defeat at Stamford Bridge - despite the owner making his first appearance at a game since November.
His last outing to watch the Magpies came against AFC Bournemouth at St James’ Park after a run of seven consecutive games before Christmas.Back then Ashley had been branded an absent owner before making his return to discuss team politics over a pizza in Ponteland.
When asked if Ashley could see the problems on the field for United, Benitez said: “I think from the beginning of the season we know that we can get close, but that’s not enough.
“Hopefully, everybody can see the effort is there and the players are trying their best.
“We are trying our best but still it is not enough in some games.
“In games against the top sides we made the difference.
“But still we were are close each time.”
Benitez was then asked if he had held any talks with Ashley, he replied: “No.
“I was talking with Lee Charnley before the game, I have not seen Mike after.
“I knew that he was here.”