Former Newcastle United striker Demba Ba has continued to follow the Magpies years after his exit.
Demba Ba only spent two seasons on Tyneside, but he became a cult hero among Newcastle United fans.
The French-Senegalese striker boasted an incredible scoring record at St James’ Park with 29 goals in his 58 Newcastle appearances – exactly one every two games.
Ba has now entered the world of football ownership as the co-owner of Ligue 2 side USL Dunkerque and he is eager to reconnect with Newcastle.
Ba is planning talks with PIF to discuss potential loan deals between the two clubs. It is an exciting opportunity for Newcastle, who have been re-organising their loan department.
Demba Ba raves about Eddie Howe as Newcastle manager
During his time in France, it is clear that Ba has been keeping up to date with Newcastle’s results, especially since Eddie Howe took charge.
Via an interview with iNews, Ba spoke about Howe’s success at Newcastle and highlighted one trait that stands out.
“What I like about Eddie is his calmness on the sideline,” said Ba.
“The last thing you need as a football player is stress. He’s not emotional or affected by a player missing a chance or the opposition team scoring a last-minute goal. That takes a lot of stability.
“The way he sets up the team and the project, it’s great. He’s definitely someone that is there for the long-term and I think he brings that to Newcastle if they stay.”
Eddie Howe has silenced his critics at Newcastle
It has now been over three years since Howe became manager, and in that time he has transformed Newcastle into a top side.
He saved the Magpies from relegation, before leading them back to the Champions League for the first time in 20 years.
Now, Newcastle are in a second cup final in three years after booking their spot in the 2025 Carabao Cup final.
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As recently as December there was talk of Howe being sacked but he silenced his critics by leading Newcastle on a remarkable run of form, including nine consecutive wins.
Ba is spot on – Howe is a brilliant long-term manager and he is building something special at St James’ Park.
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