Transfer Centre

Newcastle United boss Rafael Benitez: 'I am calm over signings'

By Darren Plant, Senior Reporter | 10 August 2018

Newcastle United boss Rafael Benitez says that he remains "really calm" over the club's efforts in the transfer market, despite failing to secure each of his targets.

Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez has suggested that he wants to focus on matters on the pitch after the closure of the transfer window.

Benitez has made as many as seven new signings ahead of the new Premier League campaign, but the Spaniard has cut a frustrated figure due to the club's efforts in the summer market.

The Magpies have also made a significant profit - rather than providing Benitez with extra funds for new players - but the club's boss insists that his only priority is how his team performs on the pitch.

At a press conference, Benitez told reporters: "I am really calm now because we have finished [the transfer window]. It is the time where you have to do exactly as we did last year, the fans behind the team, all together, the work rate and commitment.

"During the summer, you have to try to improve your squad as much as possible. As soon as you are finished, you have to concentrate on football. The fans will think, 'Rafa will be upset' or this or that, but this is not the time for that.

"We finished 10th last year. We have added some players - players we needed - and I think that is good and positive. Could it be better? You can always improve and be better, but I am pleased with the players that are here."

Newcastle begin the season with a home fixture against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday afternoon.