Ba admits struggle to recapture best form

Demba Ba has admitted he has struggled to produce his best form since his move to Chelsea from Newcastle.

The striker made a major impact at West Ham and then St James’ Park before leaving the Magpies for Stamford Bridge in January.

But he has been unable to hold down a place in the Chelsea team and almost left to join Arsenal on loan in the final hours of the recent transfer window.

Ba’s goalscoring record
West Ham: 14 matches, 7 goals
Newcastle: 54 matches, 29 goals
Chelsea: 23 matches, 6 goals

“I know I haven’t played as good as when I was at Newcastle or West Ham,” said Ba.

“I needed time to settle. I keep working hard and still believe the rewards are behind the work.

“I’m not looking at any causes outside myself. It all depends on me and the performance I put in on the pitch. If I don’t perform, it will be only my fault.”

And the Senegal international, 28, insists he will not be adversely affected by seeing a proposed move to Arsenal fall through.

He said: “This is part of football. It didn’t happen. I’m a good professional and always work hard. I will keep doing the same.

“I told the manager if I stayed I would keep fighting for the club. Now it’s about the next months and years with Chelsea.”

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