10 Newcastle Centre-Backs Chancel Mbemba Should Look To Emulate

2. Fabricio Coloccini

Coloccini's time at St James' Park did not start well. Signed for £10.3 million in the summer of 2008, his first year on Tyneside ended with relegation and the Argentine taking heavy criticism at times, especially for his performance in a 5-1 home defeat at the hands of Liverpool. Many thought that, similarly to previous Deportivo La Coruna import Albert Luque, Coloccini just might not be up to the standard of the Premier League. In the subsequent years though, Coloccini has proven himself to be a key figure at the club and his decision to stay while many others jumped ship in the summer of 2009 speaks volumes. His time in the Championship toughened him up and really helped him adjust to the English game. When the club returned to the top flight, it seemed like a completely different player as he retained his composure and ball-playing skills but improved on his positioning, appeared stronger and looked more ready for the pace of the game. Coloccini was appointed club captain in 2011 and has been by and large a solid figure in the centre of the back four during that time. Last season was his worst at the club since his first and, at times, his willingness to play the ball can be a hindrance. That being said, considering his partner for most of last year was Mike Williamson, the contrast makes you appreciate what he brings to the team. Time appears to be catching up with the 33-year-old and there are now question marks about how much longer he can go on for but his commitment to the club (with the exception of his brief flirtation with a move back to Argentina) and the way that he adapted his game are traits which Chancel Mbemba should seek to replicate.