Rafa Benitez has swung the emphasis back towards Mike Ashley and managing director Lee Charnley by insisting he is waiting for them to give him an "answer" on his future.
Benitez was responding to reports from France that he was exploring possibilities for next season and looking at jobs in Ligue 1.
But Benitez has denied any meeting even took place with a French job agency.
He said: "I read the story.
"On March 6 I was here training, having lunch, then I left at 7pm or 8pm.
"The only club I am talking to about my future is Newcastle and I am waiting for an answer.
"When? I don't know."
Benitez has been linked with jobs at Leicester City and Celtic since the turn of the year , but he is now aiming to get his future secured on Tyneside.
But he urged for focus on the Crystal Palace game.
Benitez was asked if a victory over the Eagles would be enough to secure the club's Premier League status.
But he said: "They have pace, ability and they are quite dangerous.
"The main thing for us is not to waste too much energy on points, just concentrate on our game.
"Forty could be enough but we will concentrate on our game."