Former Newcastle United winger Christian Atsu says new Everton boss Rafa Benitez will have no problem confronting his players.

The 29-year-old has offered the players at Goodison Park an insight into how the Spaniard operates.

And he told The Athletic how Benitez is not scared to get physical.

Recalling what happened just after he had completed his medical at Toon, he said: “I was talking to him and, all of a sudden, he pushed me.

“I realised straightaway he was testing me. He thought I was small and wanted to see my physicality, how I'd react to being pushed, because of how physical the Championship is.

“Immediately, I learned how Benitez thinks, how he's always looking to improve."

Atsu also explained exactly why he loved Benitez and especially his training sessions.

He added: “Everything is with the ball. He believes the more you play, the more you improve and get fit, rather than only running.

“When we're playing, he knows what everyone is doing at every moment.

“If you are not doing something right, what he has told you, he knows straightaway. It's about small details.

“Every time I looked at him on the touchline, every time I chatted to him, it was small details."