Newcastle are returning to the Premier League. We look at the key figures in their promotion.
A look at Newcastle's key players this season
Newcastle are preparing for a swift return to the Premier League after securing promotion.
The Magpies clinched an immediate return to the top flight as Nottingham Forest could only manage a goalless draw with Cardiff.
Here, we look at some of the key men in their year in the Coca-Cola Championship this season who will hope to be equally influential during the 2010-11 campaign.
STEVE HARPER
Harper has waited a long time to establish himself as number one at St James'
Park, but got his latest chance when Shay Given headed for Manchester City in January last year. He has been the rock upon which the promotion drive has been based, and his 20 clean sheets have proved invaluable.
JOSE ENRIQUE
Enrique's first two seasons in English football proved difficult and had he been one of the men to leave the club during last summer's cull, there would have been few complaints. However, the Spaniard's strength and pace have proved potent weapons in the Coca-Cola Championship and the confidence he has gained will serve him well if he gets the chance to justify his £6.5million transfer fee back in the top flight.
FABRICIO COLOCCINI
Like Enrique, Argentina international Coloccini endured a difficult introduction to life in the Premier League, rarely looking like living up to the £10.3million the Magpies paid Deportivo La Coruna for his services. He too has looked a class act in the lower division.
JONAS GUTIERREZ
Coloccini's compatriot Gutierrez showed only flashes of his undoubted brilliance during his first season on Tyneside as he struggled to provide meaningful service for the frontmen and failed to score a single goal. He has contributed on both fronts this time around.
ANDY CARROLL
Carroll looked every inch the raw youngster when he forced his way into the team during the final ill-fated weeks of last season. He has since honed his art in a division well-suited to his rugged approach and is currently the club's leading scorer with 16 goals.
