BBC pundit Garth Crooks has warned Newcastle chiefs that if Rafa Benitez leaves then 'half of the team' will follow.
Benitez's future remains up in the air with his contract set to expire next month. As yet, the Magpies boss is yet to agree fresh terms and could leave the club this summer.
Newcastle fans serenaded Benitez with chants of 'we want you to stay' on Saturday following a 3-2 defeat to Liverpool in the Magpies' final home game of the season.
And while praising Benitez for the positive effect he has had on forward Salomon Rondon this season, Crooks spoke of the importance of retaining Benitez's services beyond this season.
"The chant said it all from the Newcastle fans - 'Rafa Benitez, we want you to stay'. I bet Salomon Rondon does too," Crooks wrote in his Premier League Team of the Week column for BBC Sport.
"Since his arrival at St James' Park, the Venezuela international has not look back. He has led the Newcastle striking line with distinction.
"The problem for the Magpies is that if Rafa goes, so does half of that team. That team is nothing without Rafa's leadership and inspiration. The quicker owner Mike Ashley can conclude contract talks with Benitez, the better for all concerned."
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