Newcastle 25-year-old named in AFCON team of the tournament
By Harvey Byrne
Newcastle attacker Christian Atsu was named in the African Cup on Nations’ team of the tournament after starring for Ghana.
The competition came to an end on Sunday evening with Cameroon battling to a 2-1 victory over Egypt in the final.
Ghana themselves were knocked out by the eventual winners at the semi-final stage, but Atsu played in all six matches for his country, providing an attacking outlet for his side on the wing.
The 25-year-old was one of the standout stars of the competition and was one of two English-based players to finish in the team of the tournament: Fabrice Ondoa, Kara Mbodji, Ahmed Hegazy, Michael Ngadeu-Ngadjui, Charles Kaboré, Daniel Amartey, Bertrand Traoré, Christian Atsu, Mohamed Salah, Christian Bassogog, Junior Kabananga.
Newcastle’s Mohamed Diame and Chancel Mbemba also left for the winter tournament with both Senegal and DR Congo respectively, but neither were as impressive as Atsu.
The right-winger is currently on loan with the north east club from Premier League giants Chelsea.
He has just three goals in 19 appearances for the Toon in all competitions, but he will now be looking to bring his fine form back to Newcastle as they aim to win the English second tier.
In other Newcastle news, this Toon 28-year-old has given his verdict after return from a serious injury.
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