Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez has claimed that his squad is good enough to stay in the Premier League.

The Spaniard endured a frustrating transfer window as he found himself at loggerheads with owner Mike Ashley over the club's player recruitment policy.

Newcastle failed to sign any new players in the final days of the summer window but, despite a tricky start to their campaign, now find themselves chasing a third consecutive league victory.

Speaking ahead of Saturday's match against Stoke City, Benitez told Sky Sports News: "You know my idea about the transfer window but at the same time I am quite positive about what we have to do. We are where we are, we are doing well. This is the group of players, we're together now and we have to give everything.

"I want to move forward. My staff, everybody here, is committed to improve every single player individually and try to improve the team. If we can do that we will see where we are at the next window."

Pressed on whether he thinks that Newcastle are good enough to stay in the Premier League, Benitez replied: "Yes, I think so, obviously it will not be easy. I am against this idea that now we can compete for Europe.

"We have to be stronger every week and even if you are stronger you can lose games but at least be sure we continue working, trying to give the players some advice and tips that will help the team to be better."

Benitez returns to the dugout at St James' Park against the Potters after missing last weekend's 1-0 win over Swansea City due to a hernia operation.