Newcastle striker Demba Ba has quashed rumours that he is eager to leave the club, stating that stories that he may be on the move are mere media speculation.
The Senegalese forward has been in blistering form this season, and scored his 16th Premier League goal of the campaign against Aston Villa on Sunday.
Despite rumours stating that he has a £7 million release clause in his contract and that a number of leading sides are pursuing the African hitman, Ba has spoke of his intention to stay with the Tyneside outfit.
“I never talked to anyone to say I wanted to leave,” Ba told The Telegraph.
“I was just listening to people saying or writing he’s going there, he’s going there, he’s going there, and I had a big smile on my face.
“It was funny to me. The most important thing is being happy with your football and I am happy here,” he commented.
Ba reportedly turned down the legendary Newcastle No 9 jersey, but has confirmed it was because he wanted to keep his own number, and that new signing and countryman Papiss Cisse is welcome to it.
“I always said that I wanted to keep my number [19]. I always said that if someone comes in and you want to give him No 9, don’t even ask me – just give it to him if he wants it.
“He [Alan Pardew] asked me if I didn’t mind it going to him [Cisse]. I said just give it to him if it helps to sign him.
“I have told him everything about the No 9 shirt, but I have also said it is just a number. He is a very quiet guy. All the fuss and hype with not affect him,” Ba confessed.
Newcastle are currently fifth in the Premier League standings and face Tottenham at White Hart Lane on Saturday.
By Gareth McKnight
Football News 24/7
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