Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew has revealed that Fabricio Coloccini could return to the starting lineup before the end of the season.

The Argentine defender has been out of action since the end of February when he broke two bones in his back during a match against Southampton.

Despite reports that he would miss the remainder of the campaign, Pardew has claimed that the 31-year-old should be available for selection once he comes through some training sessions.

"Colo is training. He hasn't done full physical training - that's due to come, hopefully, this week," said Pardew.

"We are fingers-crossed because obviously that would be a big boost for us to have our captain back for sure."

Coloccini has been heavily linked with a return to his homeland during the summer.