Newcastle United have confirmed that captain Fabricio Coloccini will not be included in the squad for Saturday's Premier League match against Hull City.

The club have revealed that the centre-back has returned to his native Argentina due to a family bereavement, but have not stated when the defender is expected to return.

A statement on the club's official website said: "Newcastle United captain Fabricio Coloccini will not be involved in Saturday's Barclays Premier League fixture at Hull following a family bereavement.

"The centre-back has been allowed to return home to Argentina to spend time with family rather than make the trip to the KC Stadium."

The Magpies are currently eighth in the league table.