By Anthony Marshall - Newcastle United Club Reporter

Captain Fabricio Coloccini insists there is "no reason" why Newcastle United cannot repeat last season's remarkable campaign.

Written off by many before even kicking a ball, the Magpies went on to become the Barclays Premier League's surprise package, finishing fifth in the top flight and therefore securing a place in this term's Europa League.

Coloccini and Co are currently preparing for their first pre-season friendly of the summer against Chemnitzer on Friday night (6.30pm kick-off local time), and the Argentine international spoke to nufc.co.uk from their east Germany base.

"It is good to be back in training," he said.

"We have had six weeks without football. I spent a lot of time with family and friends over the summer, but you miss football and it is nice to be back kicking a ball around again.

"We are back into the hard work now. Pre-season training is always tough but you need it. We have a long season ahead of us so you need this work to prepare you for it.

"We are going to have to work really hard, with Europe as well as the league and the cups this year.

"It will be tough but there is no reason why we can't have another year like the last one, because we are a good team."

Coloccini revealed it will be a proud moment when he becomes the first captain in five years to lead the Magpies into Europe.

And he believes everyone associated with the Club should savour these memorable moments.

"Newcastle have gone a lot of years without playing in Europe and it will be a nice experience for us," said the centre-back.

"Playing in Europe is what every player wants, and it is great for the Club as well. We deserve it after a lot of hard work.

"We have to enjoy every minute of it."