Newcastle United: 8 Best Players Of The Season So Far

4. Jack Colback

When Jack Colback was signed this summer, some fans were already on the back foot thanks to his former allegiance to Sunderland, but then when the Black Cats released a petulant, over-emotional statement saying they were bitter and never really loved him anyway, he became an instant hero. And it helped his transition to Tyneside that the dyed in the wool Geordie hot the ground running, slotting into central midfield well thanks to his work-rate and his smart use of the ball. He plays with purpose, and though he is being played a little too deep, his passing stats have been impressive, and his ability to help the team move out from defence on the break is likewise. Hopefully, Alan Pardew will be able to call Cheick Tiote back into the first team so Colback isn't shackled so deep - as his passing ability is too valuable for him to be too far away from the attack (as he proved against Spurs).