Newcastle United boss Rafa Benitez was tightlipped on his future after defeat at Arsenal.

Benitez refused to beyond Saturday's game with Crystal Palace - a game in which the Magpies could seal Premier League survival.

After reports he was close to extending his deal, Benitez said after the game: “Nothing has changed.

“We are exactly the same as we were some days ago.

“We are in the same position, the same situation.

“I am just trying to concentrate on Crystal Palace."

Benitez has been linked with the Guangzhou Evergrande job for next season.

When asked if he had been practicing Mandarin, he said: “At the moment, I am only concentrated on what I can do, and that is to prepare the team for the next game.

“People can talk about things, and that is normal in football.

“Players, managers, whatever.

“The only thing I can do now is try to do the job properly and stay in the Premier League."