Transfer Centre

[monks data]

Attendance: 59,379

Premier League

Dec 16, 2017 at 3pm UK

Arsenal
1-0
Newcastle Newcastle United

Ozil (24')

FT(HT: 1-0)

Rafael Benitez: "We need something in January"

By Neil Wilkes, Editor-in-chief | 16 December 2017

Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez says that the January transfer window will be key to the club's survival after they slump to another defeat in the Premier League.

Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez has said that the January transfer window will be key to his side securing survival in the second half of the season.

The Magpies fell into the bottom three this afternoon courtesy of a 1-0 defeat away at Arsenal, a result that condemned them to their eighth loss in the last nine Premier League games.

The club's ownership throughout the month of January remains in question, with current owner Mike Ashley in advanced discussions about a £300m sale to Amanda Staveley's PCP Capital Partners.

"We knew this could be difficult," Benitez told Match of the Day after today's game. "Two or three games we could draw or win. We need to be competitive like today and keep going. We are a young team. When you're not winning you lose confidence.

"We have to keep working this way. Try to get a result. In January, try to bring in people. The fans know the team will be tough. They also know we need something in January - that will help the current squad."

Ashley has previously suggested that there will be minimal funds available for Benitez to strengthen in January should a takeover deal not go through.