Colback Hails Magic Moussa

By Anthony Marshall - Newcastle United Managing Editor

Jack Colback has hailed fellow midfielder Moussa Sissoko as "the driving force" behind Newcastle United's recent revival.

The Magpies are six games unbeaten in all competitions - including five successive victories - and are hoping to extend that run as Queens Park Rangers come to Tyneside on Saturday (3pm kick-off).

Sissoko's powerhouse performances in the centre of the park have been a major factor, and Colback admitted: "In the last few games especially, Moussa has been fantastic.

"He's got great ability on the ball, great physical strength and power, and can get out of certain situations that look almost impossible.

"He is a real driving force for the team and someone who helps you get up the pitch when the game is maybe a bit scrappy.

"We've got others like that too, and a lot of pace in the side, especially on the counter-attack. We have also become really solid and that has been the foundation on our recent success."

Joining Colback and Sissoko in the middle of the park in recent weeks has been youngster Mehdi Abeid, who has taken to life in the Barclays Premier League with ease.

And Colback was full of praise for Abeid and all United's young stars who have excelled in action this term.

"Mehdi's done really well. He's come in and it's just not fazed him," said the former Sunderland man.

"He's fitted in immediately, and that is true of a few of the young lads this season.

"The manager has had to use the full squad because of injuries, but guys like Rolando, Arma and Ayoze have done fantastically well whenever they've been called upon.

"Everyone wants to be playing and it's a really good atmosphere around the team - everyone knows their job, knows their role and we are all pulling in the same direction."

A limited amount of tickets are still available for Saturday's home fixture against Queens Park Rangers. For more information, or to secure your seat, click here.