1. CHRISTIAN ATSU – Porto
One of the brightest Black Stars is Christian Atsu Twasam, for whom a move to the Premier League may become a reality imminently. Since planting himself in the White Hart Lane hot seat, Tottenham’s new manager Andre Villas-Boas has indicated his desire to enlist Joao Moutinho, captain of AVB’s former club Porto. While there is still scope for the Portuguese midfielder to make the switch to North London, various sources indicate that it may be Christian Atsu, Porto’s young Black Star, who makes the move first.
The left sided attacker spent last season on loan at Rio Ave, and impressed in his temporary stint at Big River, winning the club’s Player of the Season award in the process. Still only 20, the diminutive winger is probably one for the future, but after scoring on his Black Stars debut against Lesotho at the beginning of this summer, there are many who feel that he is ready to take a step up in his career. The player’s new nickname, ‘Messi’, certainly suggests that he is capable of great things.
As well as technique, speed, and a tactical nous that belies his youth, Atsu can also weigh in with the odd sublime goal too; a deft finish against Benfica last season proving what he can do in the big games. It was AVB who first promoted Atsu to Porto’s first team back in May 2011, and an impending reunion at White Hart Lane could well suit both parties.
