Newcastle transfer target Modibo Maiga insists he is fit

Modibo Maiga is reportedly a Newcastle target (GETTY IMAGES)

Sochaux striker Modibo Maiga remains determined to play in the Barclays Premier League one day despite the apparent collapse of his proposed move to Newcastle.

The 25-year-old has been a long-term target for the Magpies, but reports last week suggested a January deal had stalled because of a problem with medical checks on one of his knees.

Maiga played the full 90 minutes for his French club in their 1-0 defeat at Bordeaux yesterday, and has insisted like Demba Ba, who has scored 11 times for Newcastle this season despite concerns over his long-term fitness, his knee is fine.

The Mali international told www.skysports.com: "I am mentally fine.

"I wanted that move to Newcastle badly. However, it did not happen as they said my knee has a problem - but I feel better than anything.

"There is a player at Newcastle now [Ba], he was told at a Premier League medical that he had a knee problem, he then went to another and started scoring goals before his move to Newcastle.

"But I am strong in my head and up for it. I like Sochaux, but I am having a difficult time with the fans, they do not understand me.

"I love the Premier League and I want to play there, hopefully I will have another chance, my health is very good and my knees are strong."

PA