Despite his importance to Newcastle decreasing towards the end of last season, Demba Ba has once again shown his quality this term.
New signing Papiss Cisse made an immediate impact last year. He led the Magpies’ line, scored some sensational goals and pushed Ba out onto the wings. He was one of the main reasons that Newcastle were able to maintain a push for a top four finish (even if they did fall just short).
This season, however, he looks to be going through the typical adaptation-to-English-football phase that all newbies to the Premier League tend to do (although most do it at the beginning of their time in England). He’s still a threat, but he’s not quite the same imposing figure.
This has allowed Ba to creep slowly back into importance and he’s starting to look like Newcastle main man once again.
So it’s a little disappointing to hear John Richardson, of the Daily Express claim that the Magpies are ready to sell Ba during the January transfer window. It’s suggested that the club have grown frustrated with the Senegalese star’s wage demands. He’s thought to be on £50k-a-week at the moment, looking for a £10k-a-week pay-bump.
And for some reason, that’s enough for force Newcastle to consider their options. I hope that Alan Pardew (who was recently rewarded with an 8 year contract) plays this situation carefully. I just don’t think the Magpies can afford to lose a player of Ba’s quality, especially not over a relatively minor wage squabble.
Think about it this way: could the club bring anybody else in who would be able to do the job that Ba currently does for a fee equivalent to his pay-rise? I doubt it. The Senegalese International is a natural born goal-scorer and there are very few of those out there.
Just look at the way players like Olivier Giroud have struggled to make their mark. Newcastle could end up selling Ba and then searching for a long time for a replacement. And just how costly could that end up being for them?
It’s claimed that Newcastle are ‘disillusioned’ with Ba. But, Ba, given his role at the club, has reason to be a little unhappy. I can’t help but hope that Alan Pardew does everything he can to fix the situation.
What’s your take? Could Newcastle get by without Demba Ba?
Please follow @ThePerfectPass for more football related action!
Introducing the neat little app that’ll pay you to view content tailored to your interests:
ThisisFutbol.com are seeking new writers to join the team! If you’re passionate about football, drop us a line at “thisisfutbol.com@snack-media.com” to learn more.