• Premier League

Ba stunned by failed Stoke medical

ESPN staff
January 19, 2011
Demba Ba has made 15 league starts for Hoffenheim this season © PA Photos
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Hoffenheim striker Demba Ba has assured his suitors that he is fully fit and that a failed medical at Stoke came as a shock.

The 25-year-old appeared on the brink of a £6 million move to the Potters, but the deal collapsed after the club expressed concerns over the player's fitness.

That news stunned Ba, who has made 15 league starts for Hoffenheim this season, scoring two goals.

Despite their worries, Stoke have subsequently admitted that they would be willing to take Ba on loan, following Hoffenheim's statement insisting they have no intention of fielding him again.

The player is unlikely to be short of options, with West Ham reportedly interested in making a move - although he remains in the dark over any potential destinations.

"I don't really know [who is interested], I just know that Hoffenheim are dealing with some clubs in the Premier League and I'm just waiting to hear from them," Ba told Sky Sports.

"Unfortunately [Stoke] just didn't want to take a risk with my fitness, they were a little bit afraid and they said it was not going to happen.

"Yes, I was surprised, I really thought I was going to pass the medical easily because I played all the games over the first half of the season.

"I am sure 100% that I can finish this season and play my whole career with no problems."

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