Playing time with Ghana at AFCON will boost Christian Atsu's Everton chances - coach Martinez

Everton coach Roberto Martinez says a regular run of games for Ghana at the African Cup of Nations could benefit loanee winger Christian Atsu.

The 22-year-old has managed just nine appearances since joining the Blues from Chelsea in September and has now linked up with his nation ahead of the three-week tournament that kicks off on 17 January.

The Black Stars face Senegal, Algeria and South Africa in Group C and Martinez said: "It always takes time to adapt to the needs of the British game and it takes time to settle in.

"Christian has been doing very well in training and he is ready now to have a big impact on the side, that's the way I feel.

"It is disappointing that he has to go away now but, if he can play some games and get some minutes under his belt we can pick that up when he gets back."