Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez has backed Moussa Sissoko to become a vital player in the team's relegation battle.

The France international, who joined the Magpies from Toulouse in 2013, has faced criticism this season for failing to perform consistently.

However, Benitez is positive that the midfielder will improve in the coming weeks.

"He has a lot of things, it's just being sure he will put things on to the pitch," Benitez told The Chronicle. "You saw in the last game he was running and passing players, he still has to improve things.

"If he carries on doing this he'll be better. He has everything - potential and quality. At Leicester he probably could have had a penalty. He was there but he will need time. He will score goals in the future."

Benitez has lost one and drawn one in the Premier League since being appointed as Newcastle manager.