Coloccini completes Newcastle move and Gutierrez cleared for debut

13 April 2012

Fabrizio Coloccini

manager Kevin Keegan has received two welcome boosts as he prepares his side for Sunday's opening league game at Manchester United.

Argentina international Fabricio Coloccini has finally completed his £10 million move from Deportivo La Coruna and his fellow countryman Jonas Gutierrez has been told he can make his Newcastle debut at Old Trafford after complications over his transfer were cleared up by FIFA.

Newcastle have been waiting for international clearance for centre-back Coloccini, who will take Stephen Carr's number two shirt in the Geordie squad.

The defender was present at last week's friendly at St James's Park and owner Mike Ashley wore his name on his shirt in the directors' box, but confirmation of the transfer was delayed until all the paperwork was finalised. He has signed a five-year deal.

Gutierrez meanwhile was signed earlier in the summer after buying out his contract at Real Mallorca but the Spanish club, subject of a bid by former Newcastle chairman Freddy Shepherd earlier this year, were unhappy with the transfer and demanded £12 million compensation.

The Spanish FA held on to Gutierrez's registration during the dispute but FIFA have this morning confirmed the winger is available to play against the Premier League champions on Sunday.

Both players have trained with the first team squad this morning. Michael Owen, Mark Viduka and Joey Barton have all been ruled out of the first league game of the season, but all three took part in the practice match.




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