Why 'no news' isn't necessarily good news at Newcastle

Rafa Benitez, again, was asked about his future after Newcastle United's defeat at Wembley.

And, again, he had no answers. Asked about contract talks, Benitez said "no news".

United's manager was incensed that his side hadn't been awarded two penalties in last night's 1-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur.

There hadn't been much between the two sides over the 90 minutes. Newcastle had created the better chances before the break, and but they hadn't been able to take them.

Tottenham took one chance, and that was that.

United's fourth successive defeat has left the club needing a convincing win over Chelsea on Sunday to guarantee a 10th-placed finish.

Benitez was also asked if the defeat underlined the need for a new striker in the summer.

"Yes," said Benitez. "We know that we need to keep the same team spirit, the same mentality, the same commitment from all these players and a little bit more quality to help and be sure that in these kind of games you take you chances and win the games."

This team, with "a bit more quality", could compete higher up the table. But will Benitez get the funds he needs this summer to strengthen a committed and spirited squad?

Benitez wants assurances before he signs a new contract.

Owner Mike Ashley just wants the deal signed. The billionaire believes Benitez's coaching ability can save him money in the transfer market. That's why he's happy to pay him £6million a year.

Benitez, for his part, isn't happy with a mid-table finish, and neither are the club's fans.

This club should be competing higher up the table.

Benitez wants to reach an agreement "as soon as possible". The club needs to get to work in the transfer market ahead of the World Cup and an early transfer deadline.

There's time, but not that much time.

And the longer talks drag on, the harder it will be for the club to do the business it needs to do this summer, whatever the outcome.

No news isn't necessarily good news.