Jonas Gutierrez tweets about Rafa Benitez, Mike Ashley and Newcastle's chances of promotion
Jonas Gutierrez has backed Rafa Benitez to take Newcastle United back into the Premier League.
The relegated club's former winger, now at Deportivo la Coruna, has thanked fans for their messages on Twitter.
Gutierrez – who battled cancer in the latter part of his career at St James's Park – feels that Newcastle "deserve" to be in the top flight.
However, the 32-year-old was again dismissive of owner Mike Ashley, who has presided over two relegations.
Gutierrez tweeted: "Thanks Geordies, always in my mind, and we are going to fight to come back. Newcastle deserve be in the Premier league.
"First the fans and the shirt. No care about the owner. Newcastle is bigger than him, glad to be a little part of history of the club.
"Plenty confidence in Rafa to make the comeback. Come on the Toon."