Rafa Benitez is confident Christian Atsu will be a key part of his Newcastle United squad this season.

The Ghanaian winger has joined the Magpies on a season-long loan from Chelsea, with the view to a permanent deal.

Benitez admits there was a need for right-sided wide player within his squad and has backed the former Vitesse Arnhem, Everton, AFC Bournemouth and Malaga loanee.

"I agreed with our fans that we needed to bring in another winger, so I am very happy to welcome Christian to the Club," the Spaniard told the club's official website.

"He has good ability and pace in the wide areas and also has good experience of English football.

"He has a different style of play to the other players we have at the moment and that will be important for the squad."