Newcastle United defender James Perch is happy to step in for injured skipper Fabricio Coloccini against Liverpool.

Alan Pardew will turn to the versatile Perch to deputise, having already used him as a full-back and a midfielder this season.

Perch said: "It's a massive blow that Colo is injured. But I really enjoyed filling in for him when he came off and am up for the challenge.

"With the quality, togetherness and morale in the squad, we believe we can cope if he isn't fit."