North East 11 - Combining The Best From Newcastle And Sunderland

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.