Last Updated: Wed, 28 Mar 2012 16:22
Newcastle have been rocked by the news Fabricio Coloccini will sit out the games against Liverpool and Swansea through injury.
The influential defender picked up a hamstring injury in the 3-1 victory over West Brom and although it is not serious, it is enough to keep him out of the next two games.
Coloccini was replaced at half-time at the Hawthorns as a precaution after he complained of tightness in his hamstring, but scans on Tuesday uncovered a grade one tear and Alan Pardew is not taking any risks.
The injury could not come at a worse time as the Magpies make a late charge for a place in the top four and after winning the last two games Pardew will be keen to keep the momentum going.
In Coloccini's absence James Perch is expected to slot into central defence alongside Mike Williamson but it is hoped he will be back for the game against Bolton on Easter Monday.
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