Newcastle United boss Rafa Benitez admits he's saddened by news Stephen Darby has been forced into retirement.

Benitez has offered his support to Darby after motor neurone disease tragically forced the former Liverpool star into retirement aged 29.

Darby, who was with Bolton Wanderers, received the devastating diagnosis from a specialist recently and is now facing up to the huge fight ahead.

Newcastle boss Benitez gave Darby his Liverpool debut and only Premier League appearance for the Reds against Tottenham in 2010.

He tweeted: "I was proud to give Stephen Darby his Liverpool debut and now I am deeply saddened to learn of his retirement.

"Stephen is a special person and he has my total support.

"He will never walk alone."