Christian Atsu has described Newcastle United's clash with Norwich City this weekend as a "must win" encounter in the Premier League.
Victory against the Canaries would nudge United on to 33 points and put them within swinging distance of safety in the top-flight.
Atsu, who has been linked with West Bromwich Albion ahead of deadline day and may yet be moved on, was still trying to focus on the task in hand.
He has trained this week on Tyneside, and looking towards the Norwich game, Atsu told the Chronicle: "It's a big game for us and I believe it's one of the most important games of the season.
"As you can see in the table the points are very close. Four or five teams are on 30 points.
"It's a big challenge for us. It is a must win."
Newcastle lost the corresponding fixture 3-1 in August but Atsu watched on from Tyneside after missing out on the game.
Atsu reflected: "I was injured that day, but I'm part of the team, even if I play or not, I take some of the blame.
"The blame is on everybody.
"I watched the highlights that night but it's one we need to forget and focus on everything else.
"We just need to win this one.
"Let's not underestimate them just because they are bottom.
"They still play good football and work hard.
"In the Premier League you can't take anything for granted, we just need to go all out to win."
