Rafael Benitez insists Newcastle have a squad strong enough to stay in Premier League

Newcastle manager Rafael Benitez believes his squad is good enough to stay in the Premier League, despite a frustrating transfer window.

Benitez, who failed to sign any new players in the final days of the summer window, will return to the dugout this weekend after missing the 1-0 win over Swansea due to a hernia operation.

Speaking ahead of Saturday's match against Stoke, where Newcastle are looking for their third consecutive victory, Benitez said: "You know my idea about the transfer window but at the same time I am quite positive about what we have to do.

"We are where we are, we are doing well. This is the group of players, we are together now and we have to give everything.

"I want to move forward. My staff, everybody here, is committed to improve every single player individually and try to improve the team. If we can do that we will see where we are at the next window."

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Pressed on whether he thinks Newcastle are good enough to stay in the Premier League, Benitez replied: "Yes, I think so, obviously it will not be easy. I am against this idea that now we can compete for Europe.

"We have to be stronger every week and even if you are stronger you can lose games but at least be sure we continue working, trying to give the players some advice and tips that will help the team to be better."