Newcastle United boss Rafa Benitez is growing increasingly frustrated that the club have not resolved the future of midfielder Mo Diame, according to the Chronicle.
The newspaper reports on their website that Benitez is confident that the 31-year-old still has many playing years ahead of him at St James’ Park, and that if the club want the Spaniard to remain as the manager come the start of next season, having Diame to pick from will be a factor.
The report adds that if they can guarantee the future of Diame at Newcastle, then Benitez is likely to re-open talks about a contract extension, which has currently been postponed, the midfielder holding a surprise crucial role in the manager’s stay at St James’ Park.
OPINION
It is safe to say that Diame has not had the best of times at Newcastle this season, as he had a number of really poor performances to his name. He has not been a favourite of the fans this term, but it seems like he is still a player who remains firmly in Benitez’ thoughts at the moment. The fact that he still thinks that Diame still has some decent playing years ahead of him may baffle many supporters, but if it could influence whether Benitez will re-open contract negotiations, then so be it. Diame has contributed a lot to the club over the years, so makes sense why the manager would want him in his plans next season. He has missed some of the season due to injury – but if the club can sort out his future, then it will make many fans happy about the future of Newcastle’s key figure.