Newcastle's preparations for Sunday's Premier League derby with Sunderland have been given a lift after confirmation that captain Fabricio Coloccini and goalkeeper Tim Krul have signed new contracts.
Argentinian international Coloccini has agreed a new four-year contract while Dutchman Krul has inked a five-year deal.
"As far as I'm concerned and the players and staff it's a huge boost before tomorrow's game and I hope our fans will continue today with a nice smile on their face and we continue that through Sunday evening," Magpies manager Alan Pardew told a press conference on Saturday.
"They've been absolutely terrific and deserve their new contracts."
Coloccini, 30, joined Newcastle in 2008 after four years with Deportivo La Coruna.
Source: AFP
