Newcastle United midfielder Mohamed Diame has confessed that he is struggling to find the type of form that saw his club pay £4.5m for his services in the summer.
The 29-year-old has featured in eight of the Magpies' opening 11 Championship games this season, having joined on a three-year deal from Hull City in August.
Diame, who has just returned from international duty with Senegal, insists that he is giving his all to impress supporters at St James' Park but is aware that far more is needed if he is to keep hold of his place in the side.
"When Rafael Benitez called for me, he called me for more than I am giving at the moment," he told Newcastle's official website. "As I say, I am still working hard, that's why I think I am still in the team, but need to give more offensively."
Following a two-week break, United face a busy schedule ahead as they take on Brentford, Barnsley and Ipswich Town in the next 10 days.
Daniel Lewis
