Alan Pardew "pleased" for Demba Ba

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.