Christian Atsu would have been a surprise Premier League starter a month ago, but now he deservedly looks set for a run in Newcastle United’s first team.
Newcastle United fans could have reasonably expected that Christian Atsu, the club’s first summer signing, was brought in to offer depth in wide areas.
In a loan spell at St James’ Park last season, Atsu often flattered to deceive, although his pace – unique in the squad – meant that he still saw regular match action as an alternative to Yoan Gouffran in the Championship.
Atsu penned a permanent deal while Gouffran moved on, but the arrival of Jacob Murphy and return to form and fitness of Rolando Aarons had suggested the former Chelsea man would still be some way down the pecking order.
However, across six pre-season games, encouraged by this increased competition, Atsu’s sparkling form has seen him jump the queue – and he is now likely to start against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday.
An impressive cameo against Mainz earned him a starting spot against both Wolfsburg and Hellas Verona as Rafa Benitez tested out his first team, with Atsu scoring in each game.
He looks completely transformed from the frustrating player of last year, already showing the confidence to glide past full-backs and deliver dangerous crosses, while the pressure provided by Murphy and Aarons has only had a positive effect.
Of course, a fine summer will count for little if Atsu does not perform on Sunday, but his work to create that opportunity against Spurs deserves credit.
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