At’s the way to do it
CHRISTIAN ATSU admits his first start for Newcastle was worth waiting for.
The Ghana winger’s classy finish on his first start sent 2,500 travelling Geordies wild.
But the on-loan Chelsea man has had to bide his time at St James’ Park, usually finding himself behind £12m team-mate Matt Ritchie in the pecking order.
“This time when I was picked, the boss said I had to score – and that’s what I did,” said Atsu, who netted with a stylish strike on 41 minutes to justify manager Rafa Benitez’s selection and keep Newcastle in third.
“It was a special goal for me and for the team – I gave all my heart for Newcastle. I have waited for my opportunity. I’ve kept focused and kept fit. Rafa Benitez is a great man and I knew he would give me my chance if I worked hard.
“He always gives me advice and help. He’s a very good coach.”
Rock-bottom Rotherham rattled the woodwork twice but Alan Stubbs’ men have won just once in 11 games.
Defender Dominic Ball said: “We didn’t give them that many chances, it just shows the calibre of the players they’ve got. The manager said to get in their faces, they won’t like it – and I don’t think they did.”
Ball, 21, won promotion and the Scottish Cup as a Rangers loan star before signing from Tottenham.
He said: “They’re great lads here and I think we’re really starting to gel now.”