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Atsu - 'I Can't Wait To Play In Front Of These Fans'
Written by Newcastle Utd
Christian Atsu says he is already relishing the thought of playing in front of Newcastle United's supporters
By Dan King - Newcastle United Digital Editor
Christian Atsu says the Newcastle United supporters are one of the big factors behind his deadline day move to St. James' Park.
The 24-year-old has joined Rafa Benitez's side on a season-long loan from Chelsea, with an option for the Magpies to make the move permanent in the summer.
Atsu, who began his career with Porto and has had loan spells with Rio Ave, Vitesse, Everton and Malaga, is set to become the first Ghanaian ever to play for Newcastle - and he's already excited about the prospect of running out in front of the famous Toon Army.
"That will be amazing, to play in front of those fans," he told nufc.co.uk. "I can't wait. I've seen the fans - they are really great - and playing in front of a lot of fans gives you a lot of confidence.
"At home, you can see the fans cheering the team. I'm really happy and excited and I can't wait to play in front of them."
The winger, who played at the 2014 World Cup for his country and won the player of the tournament award at the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations, scored four times in 24 appearances for Malaga in the second half of last season.
And he believes the backing of Newcastle's fans can bring out the very best in him this term.
"Like I said, it gives you a lot of confidence when you are playing and I always look forward to seeing the fans behind the team, behind the players," he smiled.
"It boosts the team forward, so I hope they will be doing that for us each and every time we are playing."
There's more from Christian Atsu in his exclusive interview with nufcTV - watch it here