Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew has revealed that he was "pleased" for Demba Ba after the striker scored a hat-trick this afternoon.

The 23-year-old has struggled to find a place in the Magpies' starting lineup since joining the club from West Ham United in the summer.

However, the Senegalese international scored his first goals in a Newcastle shirt today, leaving his manager in good spirits.

"Both our strikers were great today," Pardew told Sky Sports News. "But I'm pleased for Demba Ba because he's had a slow start here.

"He's had a couple of cameo roles as he's better sharper and he showed how good he can be in the box today."

Ba's goalscoring contribution ensured Newcastle remain unbeaten this season.

Written by
Liam Apicella