Mikel Merino has started just two of Newcastle United’s last eight matches.
Merino was linked with a move to Spain in the January transfer window, with Real Betis said to be interested.
However, Benitez insists that Merino is very content at St. James’ Park and is not concerned about missing out on a move.
“Yes, that was clear at the beginning,” he said, when asked if Merino was still happy at Newcastle.
Merino started this season in wonderful form, with the Spanish midfielder’s performances immediately making Newcastle turn his loan from Borussia Dortmund into a permanent move.
The 21-year-old has slowed down in recent times though, with injury curtailing his progress.
Merino missed a chunk of the campaign while he was on the treatment table, and he still seems to be searching for match sharpness.
Merino has been rotated in Newcastle’s starting line-up recently, but Benitez has suggested that the only reason he isn’t playing every week is due to his match fitness.
“It’s just a case of getting back to his perfect match fitness,” he said. “That’s it. It’s taken some time. Now he must recover the match fitness by training and playing games.”
Merino could yet come back into Newcastle’s starting line-up for their next outing, which comes against Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday.
The Magpies go into that game sitting just one point above the drop zone in the Premier League table.
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