Jack Colback aims dig at Rafa Benitez as he discusses his Newcastle future

The Newcastle United midfielder was frozen out by Rafa Benitez in the first half of the season.

Colback – who has another year on his deal at St James's Park – was loaned to Forest in January.

The 28-year-old has won praise for his performances for the Championship club – and Aitor Karanka wants to keep him at the City Ground.

“It is nice to be wanted – it is nice to hear that you are," said the former Sunderland midfielder.

"Nottingham Forest is a massive club, and it has great potential here. I'm really enjoying it here, but I'm honestly not looking too far ahead at the minute.

"A lot can change in football overnight. I'm just focusing on the last few games and doing my best for Forest in those eight matches. Then we'll see.

“The key in January was to come here and play some games after being frozen out at Newcastle. The manager gave me the chance to do that here, and I'm thankful for that.

“Clubs act later on, towards the window. It would be rare for anyone to be talking about transfers now with the season still to run.

“I will play these eight games then go away on holiday with my family and then take it from there.”

Colback joined Newcastle as a free agent in the summer of 2014 after his Sunderland contract expired.

Forest are 16th in the Championship table.