Atsu: I could have been out for three months

Newcastle United star Christian Atsu has shed light on his recent injury, revealing how he was scared with an initial 12-week lay-off prognosis.

The Ghanaian spent four weeks on the sidelines after straining a muscle while attempting a shot in a league fixture with Bournemouth on November 4.

With the injury initially not thought to be serious, the 25-year-old headed for international duty after the game but a relapse while training with Ghana sent him off the pitch until his club's December 9 encounter with Leicester City.

“I was really frustrated when I got injured,” Atsu said, as reported by The Shields Gazette.

“I was playing and the team was doing well.

“It was a surprise to get the injury. I was told I could be out three months but I recovered well.

“I now want to focus on doing well and improving the team. I feel so sad when we lose game. 

“I feel sorry for the fans. I want to win so we can be happy.”

With three outings since his injury return, Atsu has made a total of 14 Premier League appearances and scored once this campaign.

He joined Newcastle permanently in June after helping the team secure topflight promotion during a loan stint from Chelsea last season.