Newcastle United manager Chris Hughton believes that Fabricio Coloccini can return strongly from the World Cup disappointment. Unlike Newcastle United team-mate Jonas Gutierrez, the defender didn't make Diego Maradona's final Argentina squad for South Africa, despite a superb campaign in the Championship.

Manager Chris Hughton felt for the 28-year-old, who had been hopeful of forcing his way into Maradona's plans, despite not playing in the Premier League.

However, the upside is Coloccini, has had a summer's rest – and Hughton is confident he can again be a rock in defence this coming season, and banish memories of a shaky first season in the top flight after his £10m move from Deportivo La Coruna.

"I felt for him not being included in the World Cup squad," Hughton told the Gazette, from the Everton Hospitality lounge.

"What was Jonas's joy, was Fabricio's disappointment.

"That was a shame, but the benefit for us is that he'll be fresh after the summer. There wasn't a threat of injury.

"He'll be very much looking forward to it. He's been here for another year, and he has more knowledge of the English game.

"He'll be a very important player for us next season, as he was last season."

While Fabricio Coloccini returned for pre-season training this week, Gutierrez – who made three World Cup appearances – is not due back on Tyneside until later this month.