Demba Ba reflects on Chelsea debut at Southampton

By Paul Lagan
Monday, January 7, 2013
7:00 AM

Demba Ba, Chelsea’s newest striking force is delighted to hit the ground running following his move to SW6 on Friday and netting a brace on Saturday in the 5-1 FA Cup victory at Southampton.

The £7.5m Senegal striker can’t believe his luck to have joined the European Champions and to have scored on his debut.

“I wasn’t aware I scored at first” he admitted, referring to his goal-line tap-in equaliser after Juan Mata had clipped the ball past Artur Boruc, the Southampton goalkeeper.

“But it’s great to score. When you see the fans, they show they’re happy for you and the team-mates when they come and congratulate you, it’s a good feeling.”

Ba had a chance of a hat-trick when the Blues were award a penalty at St Mary’s on Saturday but Frank Lampard took it and score.

And he admitted that he had no thoughts about taking it from the man who is now level with Blues legend Kerry Dixon.

“I’m not that crazy,” he suggested.

Asked If he has made a debut like that in his career before? Ba was adamant this was something special.

“No I don’t think so. That’s a great one and I’m pleased, I’m going to enjoy it a little bit.

The 27-year-old is unconcerned about vying with Fernando Torres for the single striking role.

The Blues often play 4-2-3-1 and the Spaniard has been used as the lone striker this season.

“It doesn’t matter to me about formations,” he added.

“Ask the manager. If I have to play with him, I’ll play. If I have to be on the bench I’ll be on the bench and wait for the chance, and if he puts me on the pitch I’ll prove I can play that’s it.”

The Blues are 14 points behind Manchester United in the league but have a chance of triple cup glory. Of the remaining months of the season, Ba said: “I’m not sure what will happen. I’ll see what happens in the next week, the next month.

“I’m just relaxed and want to learn about the players and the style of play.”