A former Newcastle United favourite has revealed he is ‘dreaming’ of a return to St James Park as he continues to play a key role with Ligue 1 club Le Havre.
Just over 15 years have passed since former West Ham United striker Demba Ba joined the Magpies on a free transfer before going on to enjoy what would become a stellar first season on Tyneside.
Starring alongside the likes of Yohan Cabaye and Hatem Ben Arfa, the Senegal international scored 16 goals in 34 games in all competitions and that tally included memorable hat-tricks in games against Blackburn Rovers and Stoke City.
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Ba’s performances were a key reason why Alan Pardew’s United side secured a place in the following season’s Europa League and only narrowly missed out on a shock qualification for the Champions League. His form continued into 2012/13 campaign as the striker netted 13 goals in 20 appearances - but that was enough to spark interest from Premier League rivals Chelsea and he made a £7m mid-season switch to Stamford Bridge after the Blues triggered a release clause in his contract.
Ba saw out his career with spells with the likes of Besiktas and Shanghai Shenhua - but is currently sporting director of Ligue 1 basement club Le Havre. In a recent interview, the former Magpies striker insisted he hopes to return to Tyneside in the near future after missing out on several opportunities in the past.
He told French outlet So Foot: “It’s difficult. When I watch a match, I always tell myself I want to learn something. I always need logic and coherence when discussing football. That said, when the Le Havre project eventually comes to an end, I might well do nothing for a while. Step away from the micromanagement to simply focus on my academy in Senegal and travel.
“I have a desire to meet more people, exchange ideas, and watch matches just for the pleasure of it. For instance, I’ve never been able to go see a game at St James’ Park since leaving Newcastle, even though it’s something I dream of doing. One day, I hope to.”