Rafa Benitez responds to questions on the Arsenal job ahead of Newcastle's visit to Everton

Rafa Benitez has addressed speculation linking him with the Arsenal job.
Rafa Benitez (Pic: Stephen Dobson)Rafa Benitez (Pic: Stephen Dobson)
Rafa Benitez (Pic: Stephen Dobson)

Arsene Wenger today announced that he will step down at the end of the season after 22 years in the post.

And Benitez – who has guided Newcastle United up to 10th in the Premier League – is among the bookmakers' favourites for the post.

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Speaking ahead of Monday night's game against Everton at Goodison Park, Benitez said: "It's a massive club, but my position is now is the same.

"We have games to play, and I want to make sure we concentrate on that. That’s it. I want to make sure we have a good team to play against Everton on Monday.

"The situation is very clear. When I decided to come here, I could see the potential of this massive club and the ambitions of the fans.

"I can feel this passion after two successful years here. I know the ambition of the fans and now I need to know the ideas of the club and whether we share the same ambitions."

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Benitez – who has another year left on his United contract – wants to discuss the future with the club's hierarchy.

Asked when he wanted to sit down for talks, Benitez said: "I would like to do it as soon as possible, but I want to concentrate on the games at the same time."