Fabricio Coloccini has assured Newcastle United supporters that he is committed to the cause.

The 33-year-old Argentine centre-back signed a new deal with the Magpies last week, extending his stay at St James' Park until the summer f 2017, while retaining the captaincy.

There was some uncertainty surrounding Coloccini earlier in the summer but he has revealed that the influence of new manager Steve McClaren helped him make his decision to remain a Magpie.

In an open letter to Toon fans, Coloccini wrote: "The head coach was a big part of me staying here. He wanted me here to be part of the squad.

"The club wanted me to be a part of the 'new' Newcastle United that they are building. I am proud of that because I'm very happy here.

"There has been a lot of speculation about my future in the summer but from the first time I met the club to talk, I said to them my first choice was here at Newcastle United. It's true there were a few offers to the club. I don't speak too much with the press so maybe it confuses things and people can say things about my future.

"But my future is here. I have been here seven years and I feel a part of this club and a part of this city.

"I know there was speculation about the captaincy also. The head coach has made the choice for me to wear the armband again and it's fantastic news for me. If he said he thinks someone else is better, that's no problem. We have to think of the team. It is part of football.

"But captaining the team is a very important responsibility and is very special for me. I came here to another country and didn't know the language. Everything was new. But everyone here – and you, the fans – made me feel part of the family here and I am proud to be a part of it still."