Newcastle United skipper Fabio Coloccini has rallied his teammates to improve their performances and put things right in the New Year.

The Magpies' defeat against West Bromwich Albion means that they have suffered two consecutive defeats following a run of three games in which they had collected seven points.

The loss sees Newcastle end 2015 in the relegation zone and captain Coloccini is eager to change that when the Toon star afresh in 2016.

"We are all disappointed. It is similar to the Everton game (on Boxing Day), losing by a late goal from a cross," Newcastle's captain told nufc.co.uk following the defeat.

"We didn't play well. We had a couple of chances but we didn't score and we have now lost two games in three days.

"We defended well for big parts of the game but you cannot defend for 95 minutes. The opposition are always going to have a chance that way, and they may score.

"When we get chances we have to take them. The Premier League is very difficult and you have to score when the opportunity is there.

"It has been a very tough year and there are so many things we need to improve on.

"Hopefully we can put those things right over the next year, improve on the mistakes we are making. We have to work hard to turn this situation around as soon as possible, and we will do that. We are going to work very hard to get out of the relegation zone."

Newcastle are currently i17th on the table and will travel to leaders Arsenal in their next league game on Saturday.