Steve McClaren has said that he is planning to keep defender Fabricio Coloccini at Newcastle United amid speculation that Crystal Palace want him.
It was reported on Sunday that Eagles boss Alan Pardew - who managed the Argentine at St James's Park - was keen on a reunion and already lodged a bid, which McClaren denied.
Asked if the 33-year-old had a future under him at Newcastle, the Magpies boss told the Shields Gazette: "I hope that [he has], and it's great that I'm coming in fresh because you're not labelling everybody.
"I've looked at the squad – I've looked at Coloccini in training – and he's one of our best players.
"I know things were difficult last season, but I want him out on the field in a Newcastle shirt playing for the team. I'm confident he will be."
Coloccini, whose contract expires next summer, joined the club in 2008.
Written by
Shane Callaghan
Shane Callaghan
