Demba Ba says the big turnover of players at Newcastle United has inspired their impressive season so far.

Newcastle, having lost stars like Joey Barton and Kevin Nolan this summer, were tipped to struggle.

But Yohan Cabaye, Gabriel Obertan and Ba have proved to be inspired signings by manager Alan Pardew and now some Geordies are even dreaming of a Champions League spot.

Ba, 26, told The Sun: "We have the players to do very well - quality performers who can maintain this standard for the whole season.

"Take a player like Yohan for example. For you guys in England, he's been a surprise. But I knew him before - when I was playing in France.

"When I heard he was going to Newcastle, it helped me decide to join too. I thought a player like him would not join unless it was something good. Playing with these kind of people makes your own game better.

"I don't think we can play like this and then in two or three weeks it'll be hard to achieve the same results.

"It's early and finishing top will be really tough. You look at the two Manchester clubs and Chelsea - those teams are only winning. They also have players with experience of lifting important trophies.

"We're not looking at winning the Premier League. However if we can be close to those clubs then there's a chance of achieving something good like reaching the Champions League."