Jamaal Lascelles has acknowledged the frustration of Newcastle United fans as the club head into an uncertain summer period.
The club captain says supporters have to watch on as other teams in the Premier League spend big money and the Magpies operate on a limited budget.
Speaking to BBC Newcastle, Lascelles said: "I personally think they're the best fans in the country... it does get frustrating for them because they see other teams spending hundreds of millions, and they're not getting that."
United finished 13th in the table this season in the Premier League and Rafa Benitez is aiming to push for the top eight next term if he signs a contract extension.
Lascelles said: "I think we have done really well.
"At the start of the season we were in quite a difficult position.
"We were in quite a difficult position going in against the big boys right at the start.
"It just goes to show the determination we have to stay calm.
"We kept working and gradually got points on the board.
"Overall it was a good season, especially as all the people doubted us.
"It is nice to prove people wrong."
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