Newcastle United's Christian Atsu believes the coming Premier League season could be his "best one yet" as he looks to put an inconsistent year behind him.

The winger finally settled at St James' Park last season after signing with the club permanently, having been farmed out on loan five times since joining Chelsea from FC Porto in 2013.

His 28 outings for the Magpies last term were the most he's managed in a single season since moving to England, although he still struggled to make a regular impact in the top flight.

"I want to be more consistent in the games I play, score more goals and assist more," he told KweséESPN.

"Last season was the first time in many years that I started a season knowing I was here long term and it helped," he added. "I hope this season will be much better."

Atsu made eight decisive contributions in the Championship as Newcastle sealed promotion, but scored just twice with two assists last term as Rafael Benitez's side finished 10th.

Following the loan arrival of Kenedy from Chelsea, he faded out of the team and ended the season with 28 appearances, of which 19 were starts.

"This will be a big season for me and I have a feeling it will be my best season yet too.

"I have spent the summer getting fit," he concluded. "I had a good run [in the team] last season and I have a full pre-season under my wings.

"I am very confident."

Newcastle begin their 2018-19 Premier League campaign at home against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday.