"If I haven't played every game it's because I haven't played well enough!"

There has been plenty of comment and speculation about players and their futures at Chelsea building up to the transfer window closing and that hasn't stopped since time has moved forward and the window is well and truly shut!

Demba Ba is an interesting player because let's be honest here, it looked like he would be shipped out on loan elsewhere with a deal reportedly on the cards with Arsenal before it fell apart.

I for one, find it difficult to see a future for the player here but to his credit he stepped up to the pre match press conference yesterday ahead of our Champions League game against Basel and spoke openly and honestly about his time at our club so far and the future.

He said:

'I haven't played as well as I did at Newcastle and West Ham. I needed time to settle, I work hard and I believe the rewards come with hard work.

I'm not looking at any causes outside myself, I would just say that if I'd played very well I would have played every game, and if I haven't played every game it's because I haven't played well enough. 

I told him (Mourinho) if I stay I will keep fighting for the club and the flag. Now what matters is the next months and years with Chelsea, that's it.

This (moving) is part of football but it didn't happen. I'm a good professional and I've always worked hard for what I have and I will continue to do the same.

I wanted to play and I still want to play. It all depends on me and the performances I put in on the pitch. If I play well I will deserve to play and the manager will put me on the pitch because that's the way he is, if I don't it will be my fault.'

(Source)

What a fantastic and genuine attitude from Demba Ba! I have to say, he has gone right up in my estimations hearing him talk there. To admit that you do not deserve to play is so refreshing to hear and plenty of other players in the Premier League should sit up and take notice.

What I also like about Demba Ba is what he has said about speaking with Jose Mourinho after a possible move fell through. The fact that he wants to fight for our club and the flag while he is here, to work hard to force his way into the team and then, once he is selected, play well enough to stay there, is first rate.

I have had my doubts about Demba! I have wondered if he is good enough to be a Chelsea player based on performances so far and being honest, I do not believe he is.

In saying that, if he gets his head down, works hard and learns from Mourinho, his coaching team and the likes of Fernando Torres and now Samuel Eto'o, then I will be the first to admit if he proves me and the other doubters wrong!

Carefree & KTBFFH!