Rafa Benitez has admitted that Matt Ritchie could well be at Newcastle United longer than him.
With Benitez's contract situation still not resolved - and no answers back from Mike Ashley or Lee Charnley from his list of submitted requests - the United boss has used the Ritchie scenario as an example of why he is unable to make certain decisions.
A report this week suggested that Ritchie had been told he has no future on Tyneside after an approach for a new contract was snubbed.
Benitez told the Chronicle: "It is simple things, like if I don't have the two years he has - how can I say I will give him an extension?
"It makes no sense.
"I want to clarify that if my contract finishes on June 30 how can I say to anybody yes I can give you an extension?
"It's just not right.
"He's an important player for us, and he has been great all the time he has been here.
"That's it, he needs to stay focused and committed like he has been for the next game."
Benitez has no problem with Ritchie's commitment - despite talk that a move down south could still come at the end of the season.
Suggestions of a return to AFC Bournemouth are still circulating on the football circuit.
Benitez is likely to pick Ritchie against Southampton this weekend and said: "He has played on the right and left as a winger and now as a wing-back.
"He always gives everything.
"We haven't had any discussion."
When asked on his own future and whether the uncertainty was affecting things on the field.
Benitez said: "At the moment my job is to make sure the players are focused - that's it.
"I can understand fans and the media asking (about his future).
"The only thing I can do is get the team ready.
"Sometimes that is not easy because too many people are talking but I try to send the same message to every single player.
"Just concentrate on the game and get three points and we have plenty of time to talk about the future."
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