Rafa Benitez reveals the key reason behind decision to stay on at Newcastle United
Follow our live blog from the press conference here:Newcastle have tonight announced that the Spaniard will remain as Newcastle United manager, after signing a new initial three-year contract.
On Wednesday afternoon the Spaniard put pen to paper on the deal which will keep him on Tyneside until at least the summer of 2019.
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Hide AdCrucially, Benitez will have day-to-day responsibility for all football-related matters at the club.
Benitez said: "I am extremely pleased to be staying at Newcastle United.
"The love I could feel from the fans was a big influence for me in my decision to stay, as was my relationship with Lee Charnley and all the staff.
"This is a huge club and I wanted to be part of the great future I can see for Newcastle United."
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Hide AdThe 56-year-old joined the Magpies in March, taking charge of the team for the final ten games of the 2015-16 season.
Despite the club's eventual relegation, he led United to three victories and a six-game unbeaten run, which culminated in a comprehensive 5-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur on the final day of the season.