NEWCASTLE United boss Rafael Benitez says he is still waiting to hear the club’s ambitions for the future before signing a new contract at St James’ Park, but reiterated the time for talking is running out.

The Spaniard, who marked his three-year anniversary on Tyneside last month, sees his current deal expire on June 30, and with the Newcastle supporters desperate for him to stay, there is a lot of uncertainty surrounding Benitez.

But after Ayoze Perez’s first hat-trick for the club inspired a 3-1 win over Southampton, moving them 10 points clear of the relegation zone once again, a bullish Benitez demanded clarity from owner Mike Ashley, who is keen to retain the services of his Champions League-winning manager.