Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley has insisted that Rafael Benitez 'has his full support' and has publicly called on the Spaniard to remain in charge.

The 58-year-old has cast doubt over his future at St James' Park in recent weeks due to a lack of financial support, making the Magpies' top-half finish all the more impressive.

On the day it was claimed in the British press that Benitez will be given £80m to spend in the summer, Ashley has thanked the former Real Madrid boss - as well as captain Jamaal Lascelles - for his work during the 2017-18 campaign.

"I would like to thank Rafa Benitez for his magnificent achievement this season," he said in a statement issued on the club's official website. "I would also like to applaud the players, led fantastically by the captain Jamaal Lascelles.

"On many occasions throughout the season they have been described as a Championship side, which I personally consider to be derogatory. Rafa, as always, has my full support, and contrary to some media reports that portray me as a pantomime villain, I will continue to ensure that every penny generated by the club is available to him.

"I hope very much that Rafa will remain at Newcastle United. Finally, I would like to thank the fans for their unrivalled support of Rafa and the team throughout the season."

Newcastle concluded their season with a 3-0 win over last season's champions Chelsea at St James' Park on Sunday afternoon.