Granit Xhaka starts, no room for Anthony Gordon – Sunderland and Newcastle combined XI
Five Sunderland players make it into our combined 11 with Newcastle.
December’s long-awaited Tyne-Wear Derby is just six days away, with fans from both sides of the North East eagerly anticipating the clash.
This will be the first meeting in the Premier League since 2016, with Newcastle winning 3-0 in an FA Cup clash back in January 2024.
The build-up to the game is already in full swing, as Mackem News looks at who would make it into a combined XI.
Three Sunderland defenders make combined XI
Robin Roefs has been immense for Sunderland this season, and aside from perhaps David Raya and Gianluigi Donnarumma, he has easily been one of the best keepers in the Premier League.
He comfortably makes it into the team, with neither Nick Pope nor Aaron Ramsdale coming close to him.
At right back is Tino Livramento, who has been solid for the Magpies, with the Black Cats’ Reinildo featuring on the opposite side.
Lewis Hall has impressed this season, but Reinildo has been instrumental to the success that Sunderland have found on their return to the top flight.
Reinildo’s stats in the Premier League.
- 22 tackles
- 64 duels won
- 15 interceptions
- 86% pass accuracy
Nordi Mukiele has even had praise from Alan Shearer this season, showcasing how well he has performed, with Mailck Thiaw partnering him in the heart of defence.
Omar Alderete is worth a huge shout, and had it not been for his short spell out of the team through injury, he may well have featured alongside the Frenchman.
Granit Xhaka has been one of the best midfielders in the Premier League this season, and has even been the best in the North-East statistically, making his place in the side undeniable.
Alongside him are Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali, both of whom are key to Newcastle on a weekly basis.
Sunderland’s weakness is showcased by attacking selection
While the Black Cats have fared well this season, their attack hasn’t always lived up to standards.
Wilson Isidor has struggled in recent weeks, Brian Brobbey has started just once, and Eliezer Mayenda seems to have fallen off the face of the earth.
As a result, Nick Woltemade gets the nod up front, with his St James’ teammate Harvey Barnes alongside him on the wing.
Anthony Gordon has been dreadful in the Premier League this season, while Enzo Le Fee has gone under the radar at Sunderland.
The Frenchman has two goals and three assists in the top flight and earns his spot on the left wing.
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