Newcastle United captain Fabricio Coloccini has said that he will play for the club next season.

The 32-year-old has been linked with a move away from the Magpies during the past 18 months, with reports suggesting that he was keen to return to his native Argentina to be closer to family.

However, the central defender has insisted that he will remain at St James' Park after holding talks with the club's hierarchy.

When asked if he would be staying with Newcastle, Coloccini told the Shields Gazette: "For sure. I'm going to be here.

"I had personal problems. Sometimes it's tough. You have to decide between the problems and the work.

"Sometimes it's too difficult. Now it's finished, and next season I will be here. I'm looking forward to improving. We want the best for Newcastle United."

Coloccini joined Newcastle from Deportivo La Coruna in 2008.