Newcastle United winger Christian Atsu has defended manager Rafael Benitez in the face of criticisms over the Magpies' playing style.

Benitez has been slated for not playing the 'Newcastle way' as the club are battling relegation.

The Magpies are 13th in the table; just two points above the drop zone with 28 points from 27 games played so far.

But Atsu does not see it that way and feels they have a manger who knows exactly what he is doing with all aspects of the club.

''He loves to play football,’ Astu said, as reported by the Newcastle Chronicle.

''He loves to be compact, aside that he is very good with the players.

''He asks how we are feeling and how we’re doing. Rafa asks if we are tired and things. He doesn’t just do things on his own but he looks after us and sets up the training.

''We’re very happy to have him. He’s a great manager and he is doing very well. Aside from football he is also a good, good man.''