Soccer News of Wednesday, 22 July 2015

Source: goal.com

Preseason form excites me, says Atsu

Christian Atsu - Bournemouth player Christian Atsu - Bournemouth player

Ghana international Christian Atsu was in action for the second time for Bournemouth when they defeated Football League Two side Exeter City 2-1 in a preseason friendly on Saturday.

The 23-year-old winger, who is on loan from Chelsea, earned a starting role as he lasted the first 45 minutes of the game at St. James Park.

“I am happy with my progress so far in the preseason campaign,” Atsu told Goal.

“I will continue to work hard ahead of the new season and I believe I will get to the top.”

Atsu made his presence felt while on the pitch and could have opened the scoring after making an early incursion into Exeter area, but dragged his effort too wide after being set up by teammate Adam Smith.

“We have big fixtures ahead before the season commences, and so I’m looking forward to a wonderful campaign this time round,” he said.

The newly-promoted side have now recorded two wins in their preseason campaign and will face French Ligue 1 side Nantes in their next match at the Stade Leo Lagrange on Saturday.

Atsu will be playing his second successive season in the English top flight after spending last season on loan at Everton.