Newcastle Midfielder Christian Atsu Insists He Has 'Nothing to Prove' Ahead of Bournemouth Clash

Newcastle United winger Christian Atsu has stated he does not place blame on Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe for his uninspiring loan spell at the club in 2015, and insisted that he has nothing to prove against his old club when they visit St James' Park on Saturday. 

The 25-year-old only featured twice during his short-term stay at Dean Court, with both injury and the good form of former teammates keeping the Ghanaian out. 

However, even though the Porto youth academy graduate was seen unfit for purpose during his time on the south coast, he has proclaimed his focus is simply on the Magpies and that he has no alternative agenda when coming up agains his ex-club. 

"I have nothing to prove to Bournemouth", Atsu told Newcastle's official Twitter page.

"I was unlucky, I had a lot of injuries when I was with Bournemouth and the team were also doing well so it was difficult for the coach to change the squad. 

"The blame is not on anybody, this is football and I am just working hard now and trying to focus on Newcastle."

The two Premier League sides, who have both endured different fortunes at the beginning of this campaign, meet on Tyneside on Saturday. 

Even though Bournemouth currently find themselves inside the bottom three and one point from safety, Atsu is certain facing the Cherries will be tough test. 

"I think they are a very good team with a great manager", the Ghana international added. 

"They are very good on the ball so I think it will be a very difficult game for both of us. But we will work hard and try to win the game for the fans because they deserve it."