Christian Atsu is determined to keep producing massive performances for Newcastle United as he looks to earn a permanent move to St James’s Park.
The Ghanaian winger scored his first home goal in Saturday’s 2-1 Championship win over Cardiff City. Newcastle ended the weekend eight points clear of third-placed Huddersfield Town.
Atsu was handed a start in place of the suspended Matt Ritchie, opened the scoring with a third-minute strike.
The 24-year-old, on a season-long loan from Chelsea, is hoping to make the move permanent after two “difficult” years.
Atsu is grateful to United manager Rafa Benitez for giving him an opportunity on Tyneside – and he hopes to keep on repaying his faith.
“I had a difficult two seasons – I wasn’t playing a lot,” said the Ghana international.
“I’m very grateful to Rafa for giving me this opportunity. I just want to keep working hard and helping the team, and we’ll see what happens.”
Newcastle manager Benitez, weighing up a permanent move for Atsu, feels he gives him a “different option”.
“We knew he was a great player and he’s working very well with us,” said Benitez.
“He can beat players, get past them and make a difference for us. He’s fast and he can beat players, and he can make the difference so I’m pleased to have this different option.”