Georginio Wijnaldum has admitted that he has found it "really hard" to adjust to life at out-of-form Newcastle United, months after winning an Eredivisie title with PSV Eindhoven.

The 24-year-old midfielder, who joined the Magpies for £14.5m, has been unable to breathe life into United's season, with Steve McClaren's side 19th in the Premier League table after winning just two points from a possible 18 thus far.

Wijnaldum captained PSV to domestic glory last season, and the Netherlands international concedes that going from league titles to relegation dogfights has been a shock to the system.

Asked by The Chronicle if it was difficult making the transition, the Dutchman said: "Yes, really hard – it is a situation I have to deal with. I can work hard and stay positive and look forward.

"That is what I am doing, now I must work harder to get better results, that is what we must do as a team."

Newcastle host league champions Chelsea on Saturday evening.