Newcastle United hero Nobby Solano has hailed the influence of Argie pair Jonas Gutierrez and Fabricio Coloccini this season.

Solano knows only to well what it is like as a South American blending into Premier League life, and feels both players are now reaching their peak at St James' Park.

Solano - who won South American player of the year in 1997 after a stint with Boca Juniors - told the Evening Chronicle: "I think both Colo and Jonas have played major roles this season.

"For me this is not a surprise as they have been here a few seasons now and know how life is in the Premier League.

"This season we have seen plenty of examples of their know-how for Newcastle.

"It can be hard for a player at first when they arrive in England, yet once you learn what the league is all about it helps you in every game.

"They both have the experience now and the fact Alan Pardew gave Colo the captain's armband shows just how highly he is rated by his manager."