Newcastle United have announced that Rafael Benitez will remain in charge at St James' Park for the long term after signing a new three-year deal.

The Spaniard's future has been up in the air since the Magpies' relegation to the Championship was confirmed in the final week of the season, due to a break clause inserted into the contract signed upon joining the club in March.

Reports emerged on Wednesday afternoon suggesting that Benitez, a Champions League winner with Liverpool 11 years ago, had agreed to prolong his stay beyond this summer.

Newcastle have now confirmed that the 56-year-old will indeed stay on, and Benitez will be given complete control of the club as United look to make an instant return to the top flight following a second relegation in seven years.

"Newcastle United are delighted to confirm that Rafa Benitez will remain as Newcastle United manager, after signing a new initial three-year contract," a club statement read.

"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. Benitez will have day-to-day responsibility for all football-related matters at the club."

Benitez, who guided his side to a six-game unbeaten run to see out the season - culminating in an impressive 5-1 final-day win over Tottenham Hotspur - 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."

Former Valencia, Liverpool, Chelsea and Real Madrid boss Benitez took a total of 13 points from his 10 games in charge upon replacing Steve McClaren at the helm.