Bournemouth defender Sylvain Distin is backing Christian Atsu to make a big impact this season.
Atsu is on-loan at Dean Court from Chelsea and played with Distin at Everton last term.
Distin told the Daily Echo: “I really like Christian. He is a genuine guy with good pace and good technique who looks forward every time he gets the ball. It is a shame he didn't get a chance at Everton.
“But that's football and now he has the chance to prove his quality to people and I am sure that is what he will do.
“No matter where you are, it is the manager's choice – that is football. One guy makes the decisions and has 30 players to pick from so you have to accept it.
“He is a guy that I respect. It was not easy for him last season but he kept working hard and showed a good attitude at all times."