Rafa Benitez has backed new signing Christian Atsu to score goals and assists during his spell at St James’ Park. The Ghanaian international joined from Chelsea on a season long loan deal before the end of the transfer window but was not in the squad for the club’s first match after the international break against Derby on Saturday.
Atsu has been out on loan to Everton, Bournemouth and Malaga over the past two seasons. He had a difficult time getting matches for Everton, and at Bournemouth in particular, where he did not feature in one matchday squad in the league.
He was recalled from his season loan at the Cherries in January and moved to Spain with Malaga instead for the remainder of the campaign. Benitez told the Evening Chronicle he is somewhat surprised by Atsu’s lack of matches over the past few seasons as he believes he has the ability:
“It’s interesting because we have had very good reports. Some people were a little concerned (about his lack of game-time) but what we have seen and the info we have is quite good. He will settle down and get fit.”
“In training, he has been offering the things we expect from him. We are really pleased because he’s the kind of winger we were looking for. Hopefully he can give us what we are looking for. I am sure he will give us good games, assists and some good goals.”
Atsu could feature tomorrow night as Newcastle face Queens Park Rangers in the league.
