Team of the Week: Sunderland stars shock Chelsea

15 November 2010 13:30
Football.co.uk's Joe Strange reflects on the weekend's Premier League action to pick his best XI.

Goalkeeper - Lukas Fabianksi, Arsenal


After his howler against Newcastle last weekend Fabianksi has responded with two outstanding performances to silence his critics once again. The Polish stopper pulled off three excellent saves against Everton yesterday afternoon, helping his side to a vital three points.

Right-back - Nedum Onuoha, Sunderland

Few would've predicted Sunderland's stunning 3-0 win against champions Chelsea afternoon, let alone that Onuoha would bag the first goal. The marauding full-back dealt well with Florent Malouda and capped off a memorable display with a weaving run and classy finish to secure a special victory for Steve Bruce's side.

Central defence - Roger Johnson, Birmingham City

Under pressure to pick up a much-needed win at home, Manchester City looked nailed-on to do just that against struggling Birmingham. But the likes of Carlos Tevez couldn't find a way through a stubborn defence, with Johnson proving to be a rock at the back alongside partner Scott Dann.

Central defence - Titus Bramble, Sunderland

Often criticised for making mistakes, Bramble has found some of his best form since moving to Sunderland in the summer. He was at his best at Stamford Bridge yesterday, helping to keep a well-deserved clean sheet against the likes of Didier Drogba and Nicolas Anelka.

Left-back - Bacary Sagna, Arsenal

No outstanding left backs this weekend so right-back Sagna gets chucked in instead. The Frenchman bagged his side's opening goal against Everton and dealt well with the normally key duo of Leighton Baines and Steven Pienaar.

Right-midfield - Samir Nasri, Arsenal


Despite not getting on the scoresheet like his midfield partner Cesc Fabregas, Nasri was arguably Arsenal's best performer at Goodison Park. He kept the ball particularly well and always looked dangerous going forward, testing Tim Howard after a superb run from deep.

Central midfield - Lee Cattermole, Sunderland


Yet another Sunderland player makes my team of the week with Cattermole putting in his best performance of the season. He consistently won the ball back from Chelsea and helped out his back four when needed.

Central midfield - Scott Parker, West Ham United


Where would West Ham be without Parker? They're already rock bottom of the league but it's scary to think how much more they would struggle without their inspirational captain. The former Chelsea man put in another all action display at home to Blackpool in an entertaining 0-0 draw.

Left-midfield - Gareth Bale, Tottenham Hotspur


Another two goals and another assist for the in-form Bale as he helped Spurs romp to a 4-2 home win over Blackburn. He showed off his aerial ability with his first goal and provided a constant threat to the ageing Michel Salgado.

Striker - Danny Welbeck, Sunderland


The on-loan Manchester United man was rightfully named man of the match after his side's 3-0 win over Chelsea yesterday. He capped off an eye-catching all-round display with Sunderland's third and final goal, sparking talk of a senior England call-up in the near future.

Striker - Roman Pavlychenko, Tottenham Hotspur

Despite missing a first-half penalty Pavlychenko pulled himself together to put an an impressive shift up front. He bagged his side's second goal with a towering header and would've had more if Paul Robinson hadn't been at his best to deny him.

Source: DSG