Demba Ba’s transfer-window switch to Chelsea is turning out to be a blessing in disguise.
The 27-year-old scored a stunning 30-yarder in Sunday’s 4-2 win over Southampton, and it is great to see that beaming smile once again light up St James' Park.
I don't believe many fans had fears the goals would dry up when Ba left (as suggested in some newspapers).
All I heard from Toon fans in the Leazes was "at least Cisse can go back to playing where he plays best, and that's where he should be."
I'm not suggesting Ba's sale had anything to do with Pardew, because the player obviously wanted to get away, but it seems to worked out for the better.
Newcastle are a different side now we have players in their rightful positions - and Chelsea look to be on the slide (with or without Ba).
Papiss Cisse: “We have a new set-up here now.
“Demba Ba was very important and scored a lot of goals – we can’t forget that – but the manager has made some fantastic signings here, and now we’re ready to turn the page.
“We have a great set-up – we just want to continue to play well.
“I don’t have any firm objectives at all, to be honest.
“Personally, I feel good.
"Perhaps I am not in a position to be top scorer this season, but my personal objectives this season are to get as many points as possible for the team and to climb up the Premier League.
“If I score more, then maybe the team can get a top-10 finish.
“This season has been very, very difficult for me – I don’t know why.
“But I have tried hard all the time, and the manager has confidence in me. I will pay back the manager’s confidence. It’s good for me.
“There’s more responsibility for me – but no pressure.
“I just keep trying hard. If I don’t score, others will. Then it will be OK.”