Newcastle United midfielder Mohamed Diame has lauded winger Christian Atsu's impact on Wednesday's league win over Wigan Athletic.

The Ghanaian scored nine minutes after coming on as substitute to make it 2-0 for the Magpies on 78 minutes, effectively putting the game beyond reach.

Diame had given Rafael Benitez's men a 26th minute lead at the DW Stadium.

“It was a good performance in a difficult game, but we've done it," Diame told his club's official website.

"I thought the team worked hard, even when Wigan put us under a bit of pressure, we kept confident and looked for the second goal.

“Christian did well to bring his legs into the game for us, and he did well to get the second goal.

“When he came on, he gave us runs in behind the defenders and that helped us all, it helped the team.

"His finish was a great one as well, so that was good for the team and now we just need to keep going.”

Atsu, who is on a season-long loan from Premier League giants Chelsea, has netted thrice in 12 Championship games so far in the ongoing campaign.

The Ada-Foah-born was previously on the books of Spanish outfit Malaga. He is expected to be part of Ghana squad at the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations in Gabon.