Ghana winger Christian Atsu lasted 65 minutes as Newcastle United beat Stoke City 1-0 at the Bet 360 stadium on New Years day.

The Ghanaian who had a good 2017, has scored twice in the English Premier League this season and came close scoring twice on Monday.

Ayoze Perez's winner 17 minutes from time meant 2018 kicked-off in the same vein as 2017 for Hughes, who now has overseen seven defeats in his last 10 matches.

Newcastle goalkeeper Karl Darlow repelled a late charge from the hosts, including two wonderful saves from Mame Biram Diouf but Stoke rarely carried the quality needed to break through.

Christian Atsu was replaced in the game by Dwight Gale, despite an outstanding game.

The 25 year old will travel with the side that faces Lutton in the FA Cup on Friday.