Rafa Smile Probably Says It All

Last updated : 15 May 2019 By Footy Mad - Editor

Rafael Benitez once again remained coy over his future at Newcastle after his side signed off their Premier League campaign with an impressive victory at relegated Fulham.

Image result for Fulham 0 Newcastle 4

The 59-year-old's contract is set to expire on 30 June and talks have been ongoing with club chiefs for several weeks, with the Spanish manager previously stating that the ball was in their court.

Earlier this season Benitez suggested he requires a transfer budget that will allow the Magpies to make the step up after a second successive mid-table finish.

He told BBC's Match of the Day: "We meet hopefully this week and see where we are. We have plenty of time to enjoy, I have been very clear about the potential of this club."

Under the gaze of owner Mike Ashley and managing director Lee Charnley, the ex-Liverpool boss strengthened his position as the Magpies barely broke sweat on their way to a thumping victory at Craven Cottage.

They were two goals up in a two-minute spell early in the match. Midfielder Jonjo Shelvey ended his year-long run without a goal with a thunderous half-volley from just inside the area before Ayoze Perez grabbed his 13th of the season when he tucked home after goalkeeper Sergio Rico failed to adequately deal with Christian Atsu's shot.

Defender Fabian Schar nodded in the Magpies' third just after the hour mark before Salomon Rondon capped off his own brilliant display with an angled strike which produced the loudest cheer of the afternoon.

The Magpies finish in 13th with 45 points, one more than they managed last season, and Scott Parker's side end their campaign in 19th and with 26 points.