Fabricio Coloccini’s Injury Could Ruin Newcastle United’s Campaign
Newcastle United have had an injury-plagued season. Frenchman and creative midfielder Hatem Ben Arfa has been out most of the season, which has hurt Newcastle’s attack. But, the injuries haven’t stopped there. Yohan Cabaye, Steven Taylor, and Cheick Tiote are all key members of the side who have been bit by the injury bug.
Some would argue the injuries have lead to Newcastle sitting in thirteenth place in the Premier League table. While Newcastle have improved in recent weeks, the side have suffered another massive injury blow, now to centre-back and captain Fabricio Coloccini.
Coloccini’s importance to the Newcastle side cannot be understated. A fixture at the club since 2008, the Argentine has been a rock at the back for the Magpies. A PFA Team of the Year player in 2012, Coloccini is not short of quality; he is a big imposing presence with skill on the ball and good tactical awareness.
Coloccini and Taylor’s partnership in defense has been extremely effective, when they have both been fit and available. With games coming up against attacking sides like Wigan Athletic and Manchester City, Coloccini will be surely missed.
Newcastle are also still in the Europa League. As they get to the latter stages of this competition they will face more accomplished sides. The Magpies will need their full squad to challenge for the prestigious title. Coloccini is out for the foreseeable future and this could badly damage the club’s continental ambitions.
Newcastle have had enough turmoil this season. Losing Coloccini is a major, major problem. With the club still not assured of Premier League football next year, do not be surprised if they get pulled into the relegation battle.
Coloccini also may leave in the summer, but at that point Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa may be accustomed to the Premier League. Either way, losing Coloccini at this point is detrimental to the team’s ambitions. Newcastle fans have to hope that the team rises to the occasion and makes up for the loss of their captain.
