Source: Daily_Mail
Demba Ba says sorry to Newcastle fans for African Cup of Nations exit
Newcastle striker Demba Ba has apologised to supporters in anticipation of going missing for the African Cup of Nations in January. [LNB]The Senegal striker will be in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea for the finals next year, along with team-mate and Ivory Coast international Cheik Tiote.[LNB] But Alan Pardew's top scorer, a free signing from West Ham, says he hopes Newcastle fans appreciate his eagerness to represent his country. [LNB] Firepower: Newcastle's Demba Ba has scored eight goals already this term[LNB]Ba said: 'I understand why Newcastle supporters are disappointed that I will be away for a few weeks at the African Cup of Nations, but I hope they also understand why it is so important to me to play in it. [LNB]'Senegal is my nation and back home in Senegal, it would mean so much to the people if we were to do well in the competition. [LNB]'Playing for your country is still one of the biggest honours in the game, and when it is in a major tournament, it is even more special. [LNB] National pride: Ba is excited about playing in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea[LNB]'I want to go there and try to help my team-mates and my country win the competition. [LNB]'Next summer, everyone over here will be getting excited about England playing in the European Championships and this is the same for us, it is just unfortunate that it happens during the Premier League season and it is a shame I will have to miss some Newcastle games.' [LNB] Newcastle sweat on fitness of star man Cabaye as Frenchman faces scan on groin injury'The No 9 shirt doesn't score, it's the player' says Toon star BaPremier League bulletin: All the latest news from your club todayAll the latest Newcastle United FC news, features and opinion[LNB]
