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Coloccini still has 12 months remaining on his contract having surprisingly signed a new deal last summer.

But the defender is set to end his seven year stay at St James’ Park irrespective of whether or not Newcastle avoid relegation.

Coloccini made the last of his 275 appearances in the 5-1 thrashing at Chelsea in February.

He picked up a calf injury during a sunshine break to Spain the following week and though the club issued a statement insisting the problem was not serious, he has not played since.

And today Benitez admitted it was unlikely he would be considered for the Toon’s remaining three fixtures.

“Colo is working hard with the physio and will be training next week but we don’t have that much time,” said the former Real Madrid coach.

“He is working hard but it is difficult to see him in the next games.

“We have enough character and people who care and who are trying to do their best and that is the main thing for me.

“They are all working and fighting hard for each other.”

Benitez admits victory over Alan Pardew’s Crystal Palace is essential tomorrow to keep alive Newcastle’s survival prospects.

The Magpies go into the game on the back of a three match unbeaten run and buoyed by last week’s comeback at Liverpool.

The Toon chief knows Newcastle’s fate is out of their own hands, being a point worse off than relegation rivals Sunderland and Norwich and having played a game more.

However, he has been encouraged by recent improved form.

He added: “The reaction of the players has been fantastic and that is the reason why everyone is more positive. They now have the belief and the confidence.”

Benitez agrees with Sunderland boss Sam Allardyce that Pardew’s team will have next month’s FA Cup final against Manchester United in the back of their minds and he hopes that can work to Newcastle’s advantage.

“Everyone knows what it means to play in a final,” he said.

“When you are there you have to be careful. I don’t see any player saying “I don’t care about the final.”

“I am sure they will be thinking about it but we still have to make sure we are focussed.”