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Cape Town - Despite a slow start to life at Everton, Christian Atsu will play a vital role to Everton's English Premiership cause.
The Liverpool Echo report that Roberto Martinez is confident that Ghana winger Christian Atsu will be up to standard in the second half of the season.
Atsu displayed a series of impressive performances for Ghana during the World Cup in Brazil, Martinez secured a loan deal for the winger from parent club Chelsea.
Martinez believes Atsu will soon adapt to demands of the game in England.
“We need to give him a little bit of time to adapt to the physicality of the Premier League just like any player but especially a winger. In other leagues referees allow less contact and they are a bit more protected.
“But I think the way he has adapted to the way we want to play so far has been impressive. He’s an intelligent footballer." said Martinez.
“It’s just making sure I can give him the right introduction to his role. With the minutes he’s had so far in the Europa League and other games he’s done well.
“I expect him to be himself in the second half of the season and he can be a very important player for us.
"To be left-footed in that wing position with a real penetrative edge like he has can give you a big advantage.”
Atsu's chance to stamp his mark on the Everton side may come sooner than Martinez would've liked as Kevin Miralles is out injured for at least the next month.
Martinez' side are languishing in 17th position on the log after seven matches so far this season with just one win to show for some decent performances.
Everton host Aston Villa at Goodison Park on Saturday at 16:00.
