Watch Newcastle vs Liverpool live on Sky Sports Premier League from 7pm on Saturday; Kick-off 7:45pm
Friday 3 May 2019 15:43, UK
Newcastle boss Rafael Benitez says talks over a new deal have been "positive".
Benitez has been widely praised for his efforts at St James' Park, having led the Magpies back to the top flight from the Championship in 2016/17 - and then guided them to Premier League safety for the last two seasons.
But, with his contract set to expire in the summer, Newcastle fans have been waiting nervously for news of a contract extension.
Benitez said there were no updates after last week's draw with Brighton, but he had some better news for Newcastle supporters ahead of Saturday's game against his old club Liverpool.
Asked if there had been any developments, Benitez said: "Yes. I was talking with (managing director) Lee Charnley this week and we will let you know as soon as we have more news.
"At the moment, it's just we have had another talk and we'll continue talking - yes [talks have been positive].
"I am positive that we are talking and everybody knows my idea. I would like to see this club growing and growing, going to where I think they deserve to be.
"At least we have been talking and we know we can move forward a little bit.
"I know the fans are supporting me and the fans are trying to convince me to stay, and they try to go for the emotional way, like they did the first year.
"I know that and I appreciate that. I am really pleased with that because I am happy in the city, I am happy here and, as I have said before, the staff, everybody, is doing a very good job and we are very comfortable here."
Liverpool will be desperate for three points on Saturday as they continue their quest for Premier League glory - but Benitez says they will be getting no favours from his squad.
"We are professional and we have to do our job," he said. "My relationship with the city, with Liverpool, with the club, with the fans, is there.
"I was there six years, we won some trophies and we have good memories.
"I think everybody understands that we are professionals and we will do our best, that's it."
If he does not extend his stay beyond June 30, it will be Benitez's last game at St James' Park, although he insists he has not even considered that.
"I haven't had too much time, because we were preparing [for] this game and I know how important it is for everyone," he said.
"So, I wanted to do everything in the same way that I have done for every single game."
