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Newcastle boss Steve McClaren expects Fabricio Coloccini to stay

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Steve McClaren expects Fabricio Coloccini to stay at Newcastle despite not playing in their friendly against Sheffield United

Newcastle manager Steve McClaren has praised the club for delivering on promises to bring in top quality players - and says he expects captain Fabricio Coloccini to stay at St James’ Park.

Georginio Wijnaldum, Aleksandar Mitrovic and Chancel Mbemba, subject to the player receiving a visa, have come in so far this summer although McClaren is unsure whether there will be any more arrivals.

Speaking after the Magpies' 2-2 draw with Sheffield United, the former England boss spoke of his satisfaction at the club’s business so far.

"Gini getting a couple of goals in the two games that he's played, showing his quality and that's what we’ve got in Mitrovic and Mbemba. That’s what the club promised at the end of last season and the club have delivered on three very good players," McClaren told Sky Sports News HQ.

"I don’t know (if there will be more to come). As I said before, we've got to be patient, they've got to be the right players. I'm happy with the players that we've got here, I'm happy with the additions."

Fabricio Coloccini of Newcastle United applauds the crowd after Newcastle's draw with West Brom
Image: Fabricio Coloccini: Has been linked with a move to Crystal Palace

McClaren was also confident of retaining the services of centre-back Coloccini. The defender missed the clash at Bramall Lane through injury and has been linked with a reunion with former manager Alan Pardew at Crystal Palace. McClaren, though, seemed unconcerned.

"We've had no official approach," he added. "Colo's been working with us on and off, nursing his Achilles at the present moment and getting through some work as well but he’s been a first-class professional.

"I've come through the door, he's the captain and like everybody else we want to see him on the field and playing for this team."

Asked if he expected Coloccini to start the season in a Newcastle shirt, he replied: "I don't see why not."

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Newcastle gave up the lead twice as they were held to a 2-2 draw by Sheffield United in Chris Morgan's testimonial at Bramall Lane