Rafa Benitez has insisted he is still a “trophy winning manager” - after putting contract talks at Newcastle United on hold.
The Spaniard postponed discussions on a new long term deal at St James’ Park, determined to keep the focus on United’s relegation battle.
Benitez current contract ends in June, and he will come under pressure to make a quick decision about his future once Newcastle’s Premier League fate is decided this season.
The club want to plan for next season, and Celtic's Brendan Rodgers and David Wagner have been touted as potential successors.
Leicester City will consider Benitez this summer with Claude Puel’s tenure uncertain.
However Benitez is looking for solid reasons to stay on Tyneside beyond the summer, including being able to build up his squad, training ground and academy.
Benitez led Newcastle to promotion, finished 10th last season in the top flight, but are once again in a tense relegation battle, with Huddersfield Town visiting on Saturday.
Benitez won the Champions’ League in 2005 with Liverpool among 11 major trophies as a boss said: “I want to win every game, so of course, I still want to win trophies.
“I don’t like to play against any manager and not have the chance to compete, that is crucial.
“The main thing is the players, they can make the difference. But you have to be ambitious.”