Newcastle United midfielder Cheick Tiote believes that the return of captain Fabricio Coloccini played a vital role in his side's goalless draw with West Ham United.

The Argentine has been out of action for the past two months with a back injury but came back into the side at Upton Park, following the Magpies' 6-0 home drubbing against Liverpool.

Tiote told the club's official website: "I think it helped us because we know Coloccini's a good player with a lot of experience.

"He played well today and I'm happy to see him back because we're going to need him for the next two games."

Newcastle are now 16th in the Premier League but are just three points clear of the relegation zone, with two games to play this season.