Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez has outlined the importance of Mo Diame to his team.

Diame is out of contract at the end of the season, but Benitez sees him as a key member of the team.

The 31-year-old midfielder is often seen as the engine within the team, given his all action displays from midfield.

Benitez spoke to Chronicle Live about Diame and said: "We have some positions that are important during games.

"Some of more consistent than others.

"Mo was brilliant for us in the second part of the season last year.

"He was really important for our success.

"This year he's still somebody who is working really positive and works really hard.

"He plays and works with a smile on his face."