Alan Shearer

Is this Newcastle's best XI in the Premier League era?

By Sporting Life

Football

Tue April 28, 2020 · 5y ago

As Newcastle look set to embark on a brave new world, we ask a leading fans group to select the Toon's best Premier League XI.

There looks like being some huge investment coming for the Magpies, but even without that they've had some more than decent sides down the years.

From coming close to winning the Premier League under Kevin Keegan, playing in the Champions League and watching hometown hero and Premier League record goal scorer Alan Shearer bang in goal after goal, there have been plenty of good things going on at St James' Park.

Plenty to go at then, for our latest best XI series - as we gave leading fan group NUFC360 the tough task of selecting their best XI.

Goalkeeper: Shay Given

Central to the glory years at St. James’ Park, he was also named the club’s Player of the Year three times during his spell.

Right-back: Mathieu Debuchy

On his best I can't remember who's been better for us. He was fantastic in a poor team at times as well, that takes even more doing.

Centre-back: Jonathan Woodgate

I've never seen a more consistently top level performing player, and I've supported the club for 25 years.

Centre-back: Philippe Albert

Loved his forward runs, Schar reminds me of him as well.

Left-back: Jose Enrique

I think he had a lot of help from Gutierrez defensively, but was great fun to watch and a strong and direct player. Always creating and overlapping.

Right midfield: Nolberto Solano

A cross and a shot on him close to Robert. He could swing it in from anywhere and anyone would benefit from his service. Smart in his movements.

Central midfield: Gary Speed

Took goalscoring from midfield to the next level. Always had a shot in him, always knew when to come on to those second balls in the box. And a gent. RIP.

Central midfield: Yohan Cabaye

One of the more intelligent players I've seen in our team. He could feel invisible at times, but stats would show he was still controlling games. Amazing at set pieces.