While Taylor's abilities have been well known on Tyneside for some time now, Coloccini was pitched into the white-hot atmosphere of a Barclays Premier League duel with Manchester United after just one training session.

Yet the pair instantly struck up a harmonious relationship, Coloccini providing the guile and experience, Taylor the raw talent and top-flight nous.

But for one slip, when Taylor was off the field receiving treatment as Darren Fletcher equalised for United, their performance was faultless.

Little wonder Keegan is so optimistic about the future.

great attitude

"That could be our central defensive partnership for the next five years," said the Newcastle manager.

"They are both signed for that length of time, so now it is up to them.

"Yesterday [Sunday] was the first time they have played together and there are signs today that it could be quite a good partnership which may get even better."

Keegan is also anticipating some of Coloccini's experience will rub off on Taylor, allowing the defender to make the transition from England Under-21 duty to Fabio Capello's senior squad.

"I have told Steven to watch and learn," said Keegan. "I am sure he will because he has such a great attitude. He got a bad knock when we scored that would have seen a lot of players come off, but not Steven.

"If he does what we ask, he will make another step up and go from the Under-21s to where Coloccini is. The key is he wants to learn because some young players don't."