Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez claims that his team will have to face an enormous challenge in their pursuit for promotion from the Championship next season.

The Spaniard has committed his allegiance to the club by signing a three-year deal despite their relegation from the Premier League.

Benitez insists his main objective next season will be to lead the Tyneside club straight back to England's top flight.

"We have to work hard. We have to do things in the way that we did before - be professional, be serious, train well, prepare for every single game like a final and be sure that we're strong enough to beat anyone," he told the club's official website.

"At the same time, we have to work harder than everyone.

"It's a challenge because (the Championship)'s very difficult. I know that there are good teams, intensity and some stadiums are quite difficult (places to go) too. It's a challenge - we know it's an exciting league and we know that we have to be ready."