Boss Delighted To Have "Outstanding" Pair Back

 
By Anthony Marshall - Newcastle United Managing Editor

Alan Pardew is delighted to have midfield pair Moussa Sissoko and Jack Colback available for Saturday's fixture with Barclays Premier League leaders Chelsea, admitting the duo have been among United's top performers this season.

Until Tuesday's trip to Burnley, Sissoko and Colback had been ever presents in top flight action, but were both forced to sit out the clash at Turf Moor through suspension.

However, having served their respective one-game bans, the pair will likely come straight back into Newcastle's side against the Blues at St. James' Park on Saturday, and Pardew is thrilled to be able to call upon their quality.

"Hopefully Moussa has learnt his lesson from West Ham," the manager said of his French midfielder's sending-off.

"He's a big player for us. He's been outstanding, our best player and very, very effective against Chelsea in the past. I know Jose will have one eye on him to make sure he doesn't impact on the game.

"Jack has been just as important but in a quieter way.

"He may not get noticed by everybody but our players and coaching staff know he's done an absolutely brilliant job for us." 

Another player who could return against Chelsea is captain Fabricio Coloccini, who has missed the last four weeks with a calf injury.

The Argentine centre-back returned to training on Thursday but Pardew is keeping his cards close to his chest regarding his skipper and United's other injured stars.

"Coloccini has been on the training ground but whether he has enough fitness levels to play in a game at this level, I don't know," said the boss.

"I really can't give you a clear message on injuries. We had a lot of recovery time on Thursday - players having massage and treatment - so I can't give a clear indication at the moment." 

A limited amount of tickets remain for Saturday's fixture against Chelsea. For more information on how to secure your seat at St. James' Park, click here.