Alan Pardew dismisses Fabricio Coloccini exit rumours

Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew has insisted that Fabricio Coloccini is "100% mentally ready" amid rumours that the defender wants to leave the club.

Coloccini, who has been plagued by injuries this season, pushed for a return to his native Argentina in January.

Recent reports have suggested that the 31-year-old is again seeking a move away from St James' Park, but Pardew is adamant that there is no truth in the speculation.

"He's 100% mentally ready," the Magpies boss is quoted as saying by The Mirror. "There's no doubt in my mind about that.

"I think some of the stuff on the internet and in social media is absolute rubbish. It's so far off the truth."

Coloccini has made 26 appearances in all competitions for Newcastle this season.