Ahead of the North East derby on Sunday here is my combined 11.
Tim Krul – GK – Newcastle
Krul hasn’t had the best of seasons so far but has kept two clean sheets in his eight games so far.
Mathieu Debuchy – RB – Newcastle
The Frenchman has been one of the standout players for Toon so far and has created seven chances for his colleagues.
Modibo Diakite – CB – Sunderland
A real powerhouse, Diakite is one of the few players that has impressed at the Stadium of Light this term, winning 10/11 of his tackles and 16/24 of his headers.
Fabricio Coloccini – CB – Newcastle
Both sides have struggled at the back this term but the Argentine is the best of a bad bunch. He has averaged seven defensive actions per game and won 7/8 of his tackles.
Davide Santon – LB – Newcastle
The 22-year-old has won 10/10 of his tackles and 22/32 of his headers.
Yohan Cabaye – CM – Newcastle
Probably the standout player in the side, Cabaye wasn’t even expected to be at the club after his transfer request earlier in the season. He has scored twice in six games and made seven key passes.
Vurnon Anita – CM – Newcastle
With an 87% pass accuracy and 7/8 of his tackles being successful, Anita can sit beside Cabaye in my team.
Adam Johnson – RAM – Sunderland
Johnson has made 16 key passes this season and won 13/22 of his take ons.
Emanuele Giacherrini – CAM – Sunderland
The Italian has scored twice and carved five key passes in his seven games. He has also won 11/21 of his take ons.
Hatem Ben Arfa – LAM – Newcastle
Two goals and five chances created sees Ben Arfa climb into our side, as well as his 83% pass accuracy.
Loic Remy – ST – Newcastle
The man keeping Newcastle ticking with his five goals in six games, Remy has already created eight chances.