Newcastle United midfielder Isaac Hayden has struggled for appearances so far this season.
Hayden reportedly wanted out of Newcastle over the summer transfer window, and looked set to move on.
However, Benitez was determined to keep the central midfielder around at St. James’ Park.
At first this seemed to be a mistake, as Hayden was sent off on his first appearance of the season against Cardiff City.
But, in recent weeks, Benitez has noticed an improvement in Hayden’s attitude.
And he says that the midfielder is starting to warm to the idea of sticking with Newcastle, ahead of the January transfer window.
Benitez said: “At the moment he wants to be here, I think, so we will see in the future,” said Benitez.
“He is here and he has to keep going.
“You could see against Cardiff, I’m not blaming him, but he was not focused.
“He was sent off because, for me, he was very excited and wanted to impress.
“It was wrong but if he continues to train like he has the last couple of weeks he is fine.”
Hayden has barely featured for Newcastle following his sending off at Cardiff, and has made just three appearances all season.
The combative central midfielder did come off the bench to help Newcastle to a win over Bournemouth last weekend though.
Benitez’s side are next in action in two weeks’ time, when they take on Burnley.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
