Thursday 2 February 2017 09:29, UK
Rafa Benitez admitted he was frustrated by Newcastle's lack of January transfer activity as well as their dropped points against QPR.
Jonjo Shelvey fired the Toon in front within a minute at St James' Park, and Matt Ritchie then put them back in the lead after Conor Washington had levelled for the Hoops.
Newcastle, now a point behind leaders Brighton having played a game more, missed several glorious chances to secure the result but were left to rue them as Ciaran Clark's late own goal meant they had to settle for a draw.
Benitez did not add to his squad during the January window and, speaking after the game, indicated he was hoping to strengthen but was not given the backing to do so.
"My decision was very clear, [but] it was not my decision," the Spaniard, who had been keen to lure Andros Townsend back to Tyneside from Crystal Palace, told Sky Sports. "I said what I wanted and needed, and what the team needed, and that was it."
He later added in his press conference: "I can't change things now. We knew what we needed and we knew what we have.
"I'm disappointed (not to have signed anyone) but I have to concentrate on the players we have."
When asked if he was surprised at the club's lack of signings, he added: "Yes."
And when questioned if he could reveal what went wrong on deadline day, the former Real Madrid boss said: "No, because I don't know."
On a missed opportunity, Benitez said: "It was a pity, we started really well. "We lost control in the first half for maybe 20 minutes, but then started really well in the second half.
"We were in control and had three or four opportunities one on one with the goalkeeper that we could have scored from and finished the game, but we didn't do it. Then the own goal is the worst thing that can happen.
"If you have chances you have to take them. When you have a game won and you draw this way you have to be disappointed.
"You expect to win at home, but it's a long season and we have to carry on."
