Newcastle United coach Rafael Benitez, has urged Ghana midfielder Christian Atsu to adopt a ‘fearless approach’ as he looks to force his way into the club’s starting line-up on a regular basis.
Atsu made his first Magpies start in the 1-0 win at Rotherham that preceded the international break, with his first-half strike proving decisive.
His four previous Newcastle appearances had come from the substitutes’ bench, and he could well find himself back there if Benitez turns back to Matt Ritchie for Saturday’s home game with Brentford.
Nevertheless, the Chelsea loanee has proved he has the ability to make an impact in the Championship, with his searing pace already having troubled a number of defenders.
His final product doesn’t always match the energy of his surges down the flank, but while his manager wants him to refine some of the rawer aspects of his play, he does not want him to lose his attacking freedom.
“He has encouraged me and tells me to use my strongest point, which is my pace, and to not be afraid,” said Atsu, who has an option in his contract that will enable Newcastle to sign him permanently for around £5m next summer if they choose to trigger it. “He believes in what I can do.
“I was very happy when he called me and said that he would like me to join Newcastle. I told him I would like to speak with my family, but I knew I would join Newcastle. They are a big club with a great manager.”
Atsu joined Chelsea in a £3.5m move from Porto in September 2013, but is yet to make a single senior appearance for the Stamford Bridge club.
This is his fifth loan spell, following previous stints at Vitesse, Everton, Bournemouth and Malaga, and he agrees that his pace is one of his biggest assets.
“I am a quick player,” said Atsu. “I like to run in behind the defence and create chances for my team-mates. I use my pace to create chances and to score.”
His winner at Rotherham kept Newcastle in third position ahead of this weekend’s games, and ensured the Magpies were able to build on their previous thrilling comeback against Norwich.
“Everyone here is working hard,” added Atsu. “I am very happy when everyone is happy and in good shape. We need everyone to be working hard because it is a long season. I am happy to see that everyone is.”
Meanwhile, Mo Diame has admitted there is considerable room for improvement as he looks to increase his contribution to Newcastle’s attacking efforts.
The Senegal international is still to score his first goal since completing a summer move from Hull City, and accepts he has not yet realised his potential in a black-and-white shirt.
“When Rafa Benitez called for me, he called me for more than I am giving at the moment,” said Diame, in an interview with Newcastle’s official website. “I am still working hard, that’s why I think I am still in the team, but I need to give more offensively.”