Abu Dhabi - AFP
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.