Newcastle boss Steve McClaren has received a double boost on the eve of the new Premier League season.
Club captain Fabricio Coloccini has committed his future to the Magpies while Northampton youngster Ivan Toney has also signed on at St James ‘ Park.
Former Newcastle boss Alan Pardew had been linked with a swoop for 33-year-old defender Coloccini but he has now signed a deal that will keep him at the club until 2017.
“I am very happy to have signed a new contract. I have been here for seven years and I love this club. I feel part of the family at Newcastle United,” he said.
Coloccini said he feels great pride in his role as club captain at St James ‘ Park.
“I am not from this city or this country, and so to be given the responsibility of wearing the armband every week is a very special thing,” he added.
McClaren said it was clear that the Argentine had no desire to leave the club and confirmed his role as captain will continue.
“Fabricio is my captain. He is a leader, hugely respected throughout the club and a top-class player on top of that,” said the former England manager.
Meanwhile, 19-year-old Toney, who scored 10 goals in 44 appearances for the League Two side last season, moves to St. James’ Park for an undisclosed fee.
He says he is relishing joining Newcastle’s squad and hopes to be good enough for the Premier League in time.
“Being a young lad who is scoring goals in the Football League was a great thing. Now I want to progress here and eventually do it in the Premier League,” Toney said.
Newcastle face Southampton in their opening Premier League game on Sunday, with McClaren’s side 2.80 to win. Southampton are 2.63 with the draw 3.30.
Leave a comment
Link Dafabet