Newcastle: Ben Arfa Return Delayed AGAIN, Colo Ruled Out?
Ben Arfa has now been out since December with a hamstring problem, and Pardew spoke in his pre-match press conference to confirm that the player is behind with his fitness work: His conditionings disappointed me this week. Hell be working hard over the next few days. He lacks a bit of fitness. We need to push him. His upper body strength is there but were working on his general fitness. Meanwhile, Pardew also said that captain Fabricio Coloccini is doubtful with the back injury he suffered last weekend in the Magpies' victory over Southampton, meaning Mapou Yanga Mbiwa may deputise alongside Steven Talor.. Goalkeeper Tim Krul (ankle) is also ruled out as four or five weeks away from a comeback, though Newcastle fans will have been impressed by the performance of number 2 'keeper Rob Elliot against the Saints, particularly his distribution. Do you think Newcastle can cope without Ben Arfa? Share your thoughts below.