Rafa Benitez will wait for Newcastle's hierarchy to deliver the players he wants

He did not hide his frustration when asked about potential for January incomings

Boss has seen progress stall on £25m move for Atlanta United's Miguel Almiron

Rafa Benitez has banned himself from talking about transfers and will instead wait for Newcastle's hierarchy to deliver the players he wants.

The Magpies boss did not hide his frustration and concern when asked about the potential for January arrivals in the wake of the 4-0 defeat at Liverpool on Boxing Day.

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That came on the back of Benitez stating it would be a 'miracle' to stay the Premier League this season.

Rafa Benitez, on the training ground on Friday, has banned himself from talking about transfers

Newcastle manager Benitez says Jonjo Shelvey will not be leaving the club next month

Jacob Murphy smiles for the camera during Newcastle's training session on Friday

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The Spaniard has seen progress stall on a £25million move for Atlanta United playmaker Miguel Almiron, having previously thought the deal would go through in time for the start of the window.

'I don't want to talk about transfers,' he said ahead of Saturday's trip to Watford, his mood having dipped dramatically in the past week.

'If I don't talk about it then you wont need to analyse every single word I say. I was talking to Lee Charnley (managing director) on Thursday about the transfer window, but I prefer not to talk too much now, that is it, it is my decision.'

Newcastle goalkeeping Coach Simon Smith (L) warms the Magpies keepers up during training

Benitez has been criticised in some quarters for comments which could have an adverse effect on the confidence of his players.

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However, he stands by his prediction of a season-long struggle against relegation, even though his team are five points clear of danger.

'The players know the reality,' he said. 'Maybe some of them think differently. But the squad, overall, they know that we have to do everything right to win games. They see each other in training.

'They know if we are focused like last season we can compete with other teams. As soon as someone thinks we are better than we are or start listening to pundits, then you struggle.

Newcastle striker Salomon Rondon smiles during session ahead of Watford clash at weekend

'My experience as a manager is getting the best from the players you have.'

Meanwhile, Benitez says Jonjo Shelvey will not be leaving the club next month with the midfielder set to return from a thigh lay-off on Saturday afternoon.

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The 26-year-old has been linked with a move to Fulham, but Benitez said: 'No chance. He's an important player for us. Ki (Sung-yueng) and him are the players who technically can pass the ball well and keep it, they give confidence to the rest of the team. I hope he will be as important as he was for us last year.'