Versatile player James Perch has insisted that he is "up for the challenge" of filling in for Fabricio Coloccini while the defender remains injured.

The Argentina international is likely to be absent for the Magpies' next three games after picking up a hamstring injury during Newcastle's 3-1 win over West Bromwich Albion on Sunday.

"It's a massive blow that Colo is injured," the Daily Star quotes Perch as saying. "But I really enjoyed filling in for him when he came off and am up for the challenge.

"With the quality, togetherness and morale in the squad, we believe we can cope if he isn't fit."

Perch has already played in a full-back position for the North East side this season, but the 26-year-old is also experienced in midfield.