Alan Pardew: "I don't know how to put into words how good Fabricio Coloccini is for us, really. He is very, very important, a very steady, calming influence.
"Last year when he wasn't playing, there was something missing from the team.
"That's why it's so important that he stayed - and hopefully he will stay for a lot longer than this year as well.
"We have got a new back four this year because Mapou has played all year, and Colo, Mathieu and Davide.
"That's been our back four, with Tim, quite settled, thank goodness and long may that continue.
"We have Steven [Taylor] and Willo [Mike Williamson] in the background, so we have got good options there.
"I think Mathieu will certainly improve as this year goes on, there's no doubt about that.
"He gives us real thrust down that side. But in terms of a person, he is really committed and focused on being a great player for Newcastle, and I hope he is."
Source: Newcastle United Mad
Source: FOOTYMAD
