Benitez signs three-year deal to stay at relegated Newcastle

Britain Soccer Football - Newcastle United v Tottenham Hotspur - Barclays Premier League - St James' Park - 15/5/16 Newcastle manager Rafael Benitez applauds fans after the game Action Images via Reuters / Lee Smith Livepic

LONDON (Reuters) - Rafael Benitez has signed a three-year contract to stay on as Newcastle United manager, after agreeing to lead their quest for an immediate return to the Premier League, the club said on Wednesday.

"The love I could feel from the fans was a big influence for me in my decision to stay, as was my relationship with (managing director) Lee Charnley and all the staff," Benitez said in a statement on the club website (www.nufc.co.uk).

(Editing by Toby Davis)