Alan Pardew denies Demba Ba feud

Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew has insisted that he has not fallen out with striker Demba Ba.

The Senegal international's agent recently suggested that his client may have to assess his future at the club after being named among the substitutes in Monday's 2-2 draw at Everton.

However, Pardew told reporters on Wednesday that he is on good terms with the former West Ham United forward.

"That's just people needing to say things they shouldn't say, really, but it doesn't really affect me and Demba. We have got a good relationship."

Pardew was speaking ahead of his side's Europa League opener against Maritimo in Portugal on Thursday.