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Christian Atsu has revealed that Matt Ritchie told him that he must score for Newcastle United against Rotherham United - a message the Ghanaian himself has given to the Scotland winger on several occasions already this season.

Rafa Benitez made the surprise decision to rest Ritchie and instead hand Atsu - who is on a season-long loan from Chelsea which contains an option to make the move permanent - his first Magpies start.

The 24-year-old responded by scoring a sublime solo goal at The New York Stadium, a strike which ultimately proved to be the winner.

“The lads are great, and especially Matt Ritchie,” Atsu replied when asked about the unity within the Newcastle camp right now.

“We play the same position. Any time he is going to the game, I tell him: ‘You are going to score’.

“When I was going to this game, he said: ‘You have to score’.

“You can see we are supporting each other and also the fans are great supporters.

“I could hear them supporting throughout the game.”

Atsu came off the bench to make an impact against Norwich City from left-back in midweek and helped Newcastle record a famous last-gasp win.

That helped to convince Benitez to reward Atsu with a start, and the Ghana international hopes to continue giving his manager a selection “headache”.

“I was waiting for my time but I knew I would have my opportunity,” he added.

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“I was more focused on training to keep myself fit.

“I knew, for sure, that he would give me a chance. He will give everybody a chance.

“Sometimes you have to give the coach a headache when he makes his selection.

“Each day I try to work hard for Newcastle. I want the team to win. This is more important.

“I want to help the team most, and to help the team you have to be on the pitch.

“I want to play with all my heart.”