News of Rafa Benitez' stay at St. James' park will have no doubt improved the mood amongst the supporters, especially after they suffered the ignominy of relegation in large part to the failings of Rafa's predecessor, Steve McClaren.

Rafael Benitez has said that he does not have to sell any one of his players, how true is that?

The squad is still littered with an immense amount of talent, which if kept will surely enhance Newcastle's chances of securing an immediate return to the top-flight, ideally in the same style which saw them storm to the Championship title in style, accumulating a massive 102 points, losing only 4 games of the 46.

FLW's James Smith checks out all the key players and provides his verdicts.....

 

Aleksandar Mitrovic

Aleksandar MitrovicAleksandar Mitrovic

Aleksandar Mitrovic was a big money signing brought in from Belgian side Anderlecht in an attempt to stave off the threat of relegation.

Despite being unproven at Premier League level, the Serb - who made his international début at the age of 18 - scored freely for his previous club.

Additionally, the fire and passion he displays every time he pulls on the black and white jersey has made him a firm fans favourite.

9 goals in 22 starts makes for healthy reading, but alternatively may persuade managers in the Premier League to take a chance on Mitrovic.

VERDICT: GO

Andros Townsend

Andros Townsend123

The tricky winger was signed in January after losing his place at Tottenham Hotspur.

A £12million price-tag did not faze Townsend after he finished the season with 4 goals in 13 appearances, and as a result was rewarded with a call up to the initial 26-man squad for Euro 2016, before being axed from the final 23.

In recent weeks Townsend has been rumoured to be joining Sporting Lisbon after images of him on a flight emerged on the internet.

Townsend is also a regular at Championship level having played for Leeds United, Birmingham City and Ipswich Town among others. His experience along with his wealth of talent may prove crucial.

VERDICT: GO

Georginio Wijnaldum

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Despite an inconsistent season for the Dutchman, Wijnaldum finished on an impressive 11 goals in the Premier League and like a lot of squad, has the ability to turn games in an instant.

However, questions have been raised over his attitude and willingness to fight for the cause as Wijnaldum often tends to go missing in games, however 4 goals in the game against Norwich in the early part of the season does demonstrate his obvious ability.

His attitude though, could prove to be a stumbling block as it may well be that he doesn't want to stay at the club, in which case Benitez will waste no time in getting rid of the ex-PSV captain.

Although he has expressed his 'devastation' at relegation.

VERDICT: GO

Ayoze Perez

Ayoze Perez43

Ayoze Perez reportedly turned down interest from Barcelona and Real Madrid to join the Magpies in the summer of 2014. ‘Yes, there was interest from Barcelona and Real Madrid' he told the Guardian at the time.

Yet he chose Newcastle stated that he 'felt valued' by the club, and surely he is valued even more so in this time of need. Perez' talent suggests that he could play at a much higher level, yet commitment and fondness of the club points to him staying for a promotion challenge under his fellow Spaniard.

VERDICT: STAY

Moussa Sissoko

Moussa Sissoko43

Sissoko is much like Wijnaldum, brilliant on his day but equally frustrating when not.

Seemingly linked with Arsenal every other week, this seems the perfect time for Sissoko to move on and achieve his Champions League dream.

Despite his inconsistencies he is obviously valued by Benitez, highlighted by the fact he ended the season as captain, in the absence of Shelvey and Coloccini.

The Frenchman has racked up over 125 appearances for the North East club and is also in the France squad for the upcoming European Championships, so even at the age of 26 offers a wealth of experience.

VERDICT: STAY

Jamaal Lascelles

Jamaal Lascelles4

Despite not starting the season as first choice, the loss of the form of Fabricio Coloccini and Steven Taylor led to Lascelles' chance in the first team.

He ended the season as a regular and was one of the stand out performers in the good run towards the back end, even chipping in with 2 goals.

Lascelles also has experience in the second division with Nottingham Forest playing 58 games for the two-time European Cup winners. This could prove vital and of the six players mentioned, Lascelles may be considered the most likely to stay and enhance an ever growing reputation at St. James'

VERDICT: STAY

Of course these are not the only players that futures of are hanging in the balance, all this will be sorted in what will be a massive summer for the club.

So, Newcastle United fans, who do you want to be at the club come August? Comment below.