Fabricio Coloccini: 'I need to step up in Alan Pardew absence'

Newcastle United captain Fabricio Coloccini has admitted that he needs to step up his role as a leader at the club following Alan Pardew's seven-game suspension.

The Magpies boss was handed the ban after his headbutt on David Meyler in his side's 4-1 win over Hull City two weeks ago, which will leave assistant manager John Carver in charge on the touchline.

Coloccini told the club's official website: "It is not just about John. Without the manager there it is up to all the players to step up and improve, and that includes me as captain.

"I always lead the team and give them my opinion but now I have to help even more. When I am on the pitch, it is my responsibility to pass on the manager's instructions and lead us.

"Now, that job is even more important without the manager there. I will be there to help John and hopefully we can get some wins, starting at Fulham on Saturday."

Newcastle face Fulham in the Premier League on Saturday.