Despite his undeniable pace and athleticism, it’s fair to say Christian Atsu hasn’t produced the goods during his Premier League career so far.
He has just 3 goals in 74 top flight appearances, yet his stats so far this season suggest he’s finally ready to find some form.
I don’t think anyone expects him to have quite the same impact, but his latest numbers suggest he *might* just do better than we think in Saint-Maximin’s absence, with the Frenchman ruled out for a month after suffering a hamstring injury on Sunday.
As Twitter account ‘The Other 14‘ highlight below, Atsu has been one of the most creative players outside the ‘big six’ so far this season, believe it or not.
Not only is he currently our top assister (3) – despite starting just 5 times – his record of goal/assists and chances created per 90 minutes is better than any other Newcastle player so far this season:
With ASM ruled out, it’s fair to say Christian Atsu will start vs Burnley, with him our most natural replacement from the former Nice flyer.
Atsu is not the same player in terms of his ability to skip past 4 players and make something happen from nothing, but his stats this season suggest he is capable of creating.
Let’s hope he can step up and continue to deliver the goods.
It’s not something he’s ever done on a consistent basis during his time on Tyneside, but this could be his biggest chance and most important spell in the side yet given he’ll be tasked to replace our most influential player in ASM.
“…. despite starting just 5 times – his record of goal/assists and chances created per 90 minutes is better than any other Newcastle player so far this season:”
Despite starting just 5 times?
Surely having fewer starts makes it easier to maintain a higher average?
Matty Longstaff scored in his Prem debut against Man U. One Start , One Goal. But it’s a lot harder to maintain that stat throughout the season. 38 Starts, 38 Goals is something else.
Brrrian(Quote)
I take your point, but you could also argue it’s hard to make an impact when coming in from the cold?
Not having a run in the side but producing when he comes isn’t easy.
Olly Hawkins(Quote)
Don’t let the stats fool you. Atsu is one footed, pea hearted and lazy. It would be better to switch Almiron to the left and play Dwight Gayle.
TT(Quote)
Gayle isn’t a better winger than Atsu though..
Olly Hawkins(Quote)