Newcastle United

Rafael Benitez: 'I cannot change our transfer situation'

By Giuseppe Labellarte, Reporter | 19 August 2017

Rafael Benitez appears to concede defeat with regards to Newcastle United's transfer approach this summer, admitting that he "cannot change anything".

Rafael Benitez has apparently conceded defeat with regards to Newcastle United's transfer approach this summer, admitting that he "cannot change anything about our situation now".

After the Magpies earned promotion to the Premier League from the Championship last season, owner Mike Ashley claimed that Benitez would have funds to recruit the players that he wants.

In a recent interview with Sky Sports News, however, the Sports Direct businessman acknowledged that he cannot compete financially with England's elite and the club would have to take a thriftier approach.

Benitez told reporters at his press conference: "I cannot change anything about our situation now in terms of the market, the transfer window and what we have to do.

"Believe me, it doesn't change anything in terms of my approach to the games or the training sessions or preparations. I know what I have to do - to concentrate on the training sessions and my players.

"I did not watch [Ashley's interview]. I know what he said. I know what the fans think about the interview and I know that if I keep talking about it, I will not change anything."

Newcastle, who began the Premier League season with a 2-0 loss to Tottenham Hotspur, entertain Huddersfield Town on Sunday.