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TOON OUT

Rafa Benitez warns Newcastle stars not to get distracted by takeover talk

Toon released a statement on Monday confirming owner Mike Ashley is looking to sell the club

RAFA BENITEZ has warned his Newcastle stars: Don't get distracted by takeover talk.

The Toon released a statement on Monday confirming owner Mike Ashley is looking to sell the club.

 Rafa Benitez has urged his Newcaslt players to focus on football
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Rafa Benitez has urged his Newcaslt players to focus on footballCredit: PA:Press Association

But Benitez has urged his players to forget about events off the pitch and concentrate on their preparations for Saturday's clash with Crystal Palace.

The Newcastle boss said: "I try to concentrate on football and I think that is the best way.

“People can talk about all of these things that are happening but for us every training session is similar.

“When we approach each game we are thinking about football.


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 Benitez's team next face Crystal Palace this weekend
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Benitez's team next face Crystal Palace this weekendCredit: Rex Features
 Ayoze Perez celebrates netting in the 2-2 draw at Southampton
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Ayoze Perez celebrates netting in the 2-2 draw at SouthamptonCredit: AFP or licensors

“We don’t have any influence from the outside.

"The problem is you can’t control what is going on outside.

 


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“Especially now with social media, it is almost impossible.

“It is almost impossible to stop players from tweeting or people talking about anything.

 

 Sir John Hall says Newcastle have an amazing heritage and unfulfilled potential
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Sir John Hall says Newcastle have an amazing heritage and unfulfilled potentialCredit: JK Press

“Even when people create their own stories, you can’t stop that.

“So you have to be sure that your team and the people who are working with you understand the only way to be successful is to concentrate on your football.

“That’s what we are trying to do.”

 Toon owner Mike Ashley has put the club up for sale
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Toon owner Mike Ashley has put the club up for saleCredit: Getty Images
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