Newcastle United boss Rafa Benitez doesn't expect to finish in the top ten this season.

Benitez claimed to have worked miracles in steering his side to a 10th-placed finish on their return to the Premier League last season, and when asked if he will have to repeat that feat merely to remain in the top flight next May, the Newcastle manager said: "I will say it would be a great achievement. That's the reality.

"To finish 10th last season was a miracle and that raised expectations but we knew it could be more difficult this time partly because of the spending power of some of the teams who won promotion.

"That's not to say I'm not optimistic but I'm also realistic, and we have to be sure everyone understands the situation."