Wilkinson and Black (right) have forged a close working relationship

Black's departure has led to rumours the 28-year-old England fly-half could leave when his contract ends next year.

But Wilkinson told BBC Radio 5 Live: "It doesn't work as simply as that.

"I've always been so, so happy at Newcastle because I've always felt it is somewhere for me to get better and develop and to make things happen."

Interview: Jonny Wilkinson

Wilkinson added he would decide where his future lay once he had considered both his "personal happiness" and the requirements of the club.

606: DEBATE Is there still the possibility that Wilkinson is gonna sign for Wigan RL? RMM

"I've always assessed everything and I will do exactly the same thing - and I'm sure the club will do exactly the same thing - this year," he said.

Wilkinson, who was born in Surrey, joined the Falcons after leaving school in 1997.

He made an instant impact, helping the club win the Premiership title in 1998. They also won the Powergen Cup in 2001 and 2004.

There has been success on the international stage for Wilkinson, too.

His drop-goal gave England victory in the 2003 World Cup and he was also part of the team that lost out to South Africa in this year's final.

Unfortunately for Wilkinson, injuries have wreaked havoc with his career, denying him the opportunity to cement his place as one of the world's top stars.

He's a guy who I'd go to with advice about everything... he's a person who helps me grow as an individual and helps me understand things Wilkinson on Black

Some people - fellow professionals among them - have also questioned his loyalty to Newcastle, suggesting he should be playing for a bigger club with more chance of winning trophies.

Wherever he ends up, Wilkinson has confirmed he will continue to work with Black, who left Kingston Park by "mutual consent" on Monday.

"He's been there from day dot, we've always worked together," said the World Cup winner.

"It's a relationship that will never stop. In my opinion, he's the best at what he does by a country mile and he adds so much to everyone he works with.

"In professional sport he's the closest person I've got and he's everything to me.

"He's a guy who I'd go to with advice about everything. He's a person who helps me grow as an individual and helps me understand things.