Newcastle United boss Rafa Benitez hails Christian Atsu for goal against Cardiff City

Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez has hailed Ghana international Christian Atsu for his opener that helped the Magpies to cruise to a 2-1 win over Cardiff City on Saturday.

The former Liverpool and Real Madrid manager is impressed with the form of the on-loan Chelsea star who struck the opener at the St Jam Park to fire his side into a 1-0 lead on the 3rd minute.

Atsu collected a selfless pass from Serbian Aleksandar Mitrovi? inside the box and struck home with a delirious effort.

Benitez feels Atsu's opener lifted the pressure off his side and has hailed the Ghanaian who has now scored twice in the Championship.