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The Newcastle boss is in no rush for a contract renewal despite Atsu’s inspiring campaign with the Magpies.

Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez claims it’s not the right time to table talks of contract extension for Christian Atsu.

The Ghanaian has been impressive since joining the Magpies on a season-long loan from Premier League giants Chelsea with an option to buy.

The 24-year has three goals in 13 Championship games - involving five starts - thus far.

“We know the situation with his contract," Bruce was quoted as saying by The Shields Gazette.

“He’s a really good lad and he is training well.

“There are a lot of positives, but still it is too soon.

“He knows I’m happy with him.”

Atsu had a dream Championship debut in September, setting up the fifth goal in a 6-0 humiliation of Queens Park Rangers after coming on as a 61st minute substitute.

He then emerged the hero by fetching the solitary goal in a 1-0 triumph at Rotherham United in October.

The Ada-Foah-born has previously been on the books of Spanish outfit Malaga, Premier League teams Bournemouth and Everton, Vitesse Arnhem in the Netherlands and Portuguese sides Porto and Rio Ave.

 
The Ghana international is expected to miss about five weeks of club action due to his imminent departure for the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations which runs between January 14 and February 5.