Unlike Norwich City and Aston Villa, Newcastle United didn’t treat their downfall from the Premier League to the Championship as a knockout punch and have worked in a shrewd manner as a team which looks hungry and wanting to prove a point. The Geordies might have had a miserable last season in the top tier but aren’t out of the context as far getting an automatic promotion is concerned, as they are placed second on the league table with 70 points from 33 league outings and just one point adrift of the top spot.
Paying credit where it is due, Rafael Benitez has knitted the side with a magnificent aura and has constructed them in such a manner that there lies very marginal loopholes. Their defensive line has been resilient, the midfield setup has yielded audacity and their strike force has banged goals left right and centre. More than anything else, the cultivation of a fighting spirit could be seen in Newcastle United under the tutelage of Benitez, which was evident in their 2-2 draw against Bristol City.
The Magpies were a couple of goals down but they displayed a fighting comeback to salvage a point from the fixture. However, the eye-catchy move from the former Real Madrid boss was letting Christian Atsu get his first start since 30th of December as he replaced Yoan Gouffran in the starting line-up. Atsu looked in a great shape and despite showing glimpses of hopelessness, his fearless attitude and notable knack to drive the team forward pleased many. The Ghana international’s crosses and surging runs on and off the ball created ample amount of havoc in Bristol City’s half and no wonder why he is still a valued commodity amongst the football fraternity.
With the business end of the season approaching, Benitez would be shuffling with his squad and thus, it is important for the on-loan Chelsea winger to ensure he does his bit to aid Newcastle United. Blessed with outstanding athleticism and quick feet, the 25-year-old has perennially been a threat during the counterattacks.
He passes the ball well, possesses a knack to score goals as well and can ply his trade anywhere in the attacking midfield. In 20 appearances this term, Atsu has bagged 3 goals and has created 17 chances in the limited chances he has been offered. It is high time for him to reconcile his quality with consistency to ink himself as a viable starter for the remainder of the season.
Statistics Credits: Squawka.
