Ex-Chelsea star Frank Lampard has advised Newcastle United to keep a hold of Rafael Benitez and invest in the team ahead of the new season.

Lampard outlined Benitez's role in the current Premier League campaign that many predicted would bring a fight against relegation for the Magpies, but resulted in a comfortable mid-table finish.

"Rafa is an experienced manager and he has created a really great atmosphere at the club", Lampard said of a manager he played under in Chelsea's 2012-13 season crowned with Europa League title.

"He has linked the players and the fans and they need to keep him and hopefully invest."

The Spanish manager has been nominated for the Premier League's Manager of the Year award.