Newcastle United continued to struggle with the prospect of another relegation in a decade

Despite a few victories since the turn of the year, Newcastle United continued to struggle with the prospect of another relegation in a decade.

The club went into the Championship a few years ago but they were lucky enough to come back on the first attempt. Since then, they have been criticised for not spending money in the search for progress. Alan Pardew has managed to keep them fighting decently in the league without much expenditure in terms of new players. The absence of the former West Ham boss has been felt at the club.

Steve McClaren has been unable to make any impact since coming to the club in the summer, but there are signs of revival with the recent 1-0 victory over West Brom at home. However, this was only the sixth win for the club in the league this season. This still constitutes as poor form and the teams around them have been able to take points during this period. After a brief spell out of the drop zone, the club has slipped back into the red on goal difference. Despite the negativity at the club, defender Fabricio Coloccini claims that the club are still confident of avoiding relegation. The defender was recently ruled out for two months with the latest injury.

“I’m positive about that (survival). We have good quality. We need to take a few points and win a few games. If we do, we will be okay.Of course, of course [being the captain].All I can do is just try to play and give 100 per cent every game and try to get points,” said the 34-year-old defender, who has had several fitness issues in the last four years. He was even linked with a return to Argentina where a number of clubs are interested in him.