Christian Atsu could benefit from a sad twist of fate, an injury for Miguel Almiron that has become a serious setback for Rafa Benitez in a decisive phase of the season.

The Paraguayan attacker sustained a hamstring injury and was substituted during last Saturday’s English Premier League match against Southampton.

Atsu has seen very limited first-team action since the 25-year-old came to the St James’ Park this season.

With Almiron set for a spell on the sidelines, the Ghanaian international could be called to fill in that gap for the remainder of the season.

Atsu because of his characteristics, is the most normal option to play next to Ayoze Perez and Salomon Randon.

The Ghanaian will be hoping to seize the initiative to play himself into the manager’s plans for next season.