Rafa Benitez responds to questions about his future at Newcastle

Benitez is likely to leave the club if it is relegated to the Championship.

And Spain coach Vicente del Bosque – who will step down after Euro 2016 – suggested him as a potential successor this week.

But Benitez said: "I am Newcastle manager and I want to be Newcastle manager for the next (few) years.

"I would like to stay here for a while."

About del Bosque's comments, Benitez added: "Del Bosque is my friend. He knows how I work.

"But I want to be here for a while."

Benitez was also pressed on whether he would stay at St James's Park in the event of relegation.

The 55-year-old said: "I am confident we will still be in the Premier League.

"I don't think about other options."

Benitez's side are 19th in the Premier League and six points adrift of safety ahead of tomorrow's game at Southampton.