"?Newcastle United have been given a welcome boost after Aleksandar Mitrovic confessed he hopes to remain with the club, the"? Chronicle report.
The Magpies have been relegated to the Championship after an underwhelming campaign, but Mitrovic has captured the hearts of the supporters with his passionate performances.
The fiery Serbian grabbed a goal and an assist during Sunday's 5-1 mauling of Tottenham Hotspur, but he was sent off in the second half for stamping on Kyle Walker.
In his debut season in English football, the 21-year-old has grabbed nine goals in 34 appearances and, whilst the future of several of his team-mates are shrouded in uncertainty, he appears up for the challenge of firing Newcastle back into the top-flight.
When asked if he would be staying, the former Anderlecht hitman simply said "I hope so."
6 - Aleksandar Mitrovic is the sixth player in PL history to score a goal, assist a goal and get sent off in the same game. Mixed.
Despite Mitrovic's confession, the Toon Army won't rest until Rafa Benitez pledges his future to the club.
The Spanish coach has proven hugely popular amongst sections of the St James Park faithful but he can walk away from the club thanks to a break clause which was inserted in his contract.
Benitez is currently weighing up his options but it's being reported he is enticed by the prospect of restoring the North-East giants to former glory.