Newcastle United boss Rafa Benitez is in the dark over claims former football director Dennis Wise could return to the club.

Wise's return to United has been flatly denied by boardroom sources at United but he is still believed to have links with Mike Ashley and has been staunch defender of the Toon owner during TV appearances in recent years.

When asked about Wise after victory over Cardiff City, Benitez said: “I have no idea.

“Someone was telling me about this.

“Yesterday I was talking to Lee Charnley and Steve Nickson about the transfer window.

"I cannot control the money but at least I can talk - I can say yes or no."Benitez has clauses in his contract that make it clear that he has the final say on any incoming transfers."