I personally think Atkinson is a better central midfielder than RB or winger, he played there quite a bit last year and seemed to do well.I think I've seen Atkinson play RW for City last year. His attacking skills and ability on the ball may exceed his ball winning skills. Longer term he may be more suited to a box to box midfielder, or 8 midfield role, or even RW?
Last year I thought it was a waste if Talbot wasn't in the team. It worked when Talbot played RB and Atkinson played elsewhere.