Newcastle took a huge step towards securing their Premier League survival as Ayoze Perez sealed a 1-0 win against Leicester on Friday. Rafael Benitez's side moved 10 points clear of the relegation zone thanks to Perez's first half header at the King Power Stadium. Newcastle's first away league win since December ended a run of four games without a victory which had threatened to drag them into the relegation dogfight. They should be assured of maintaining their top-flight status after a difficult season tarnished by Benitez's discontent over a lack of backing in the transfer market from controversial owner Mike Ashley.

"It's massive for the team. You have to give credit to the players who worked hard," Benitez said. "We were playing against a good team. We needed to do almost everything perfect and we were close. It's easier with this commitment from players." Amid rumours he might not be in charge next season if Ashley won't promise more investment, Benitez added: "We have to have a team who can compete. "This city, the club has potential.