Premier League team of matchweek 9: Four star Wijnaldum thrills

Central midfield: Moussa Sissoko (Newcastle United)
Quite simply, the Magpies’ midfield dynamo was a menace to Norwich City, with his pitch-long sprints terrifying the Canaries defence. Stats of three assists and a hand in five of Newcastle’s six superb goals, including creating one after winning the ball near his own box, do not do the determined Frenchman’s influence justice.

Central midfield: Ander Herrera (Manchester United)
When efficient Herrera gets a chance he seizes it with both hands. Finally handed a start in a big game by Louis van Gaal, the Basque schemer contributed a perfectly timed headed goal and also an assist. Yet it was once again Herrera’s energy, endeavour and crisp passing which set him apart and re-energised the Red Devils.

Left wing: Raheem Sterling (Manchester City)
Sterling continues to justify City’s big summer outlay on him. With usual attacking architects Sergio Aguero and David Silva absent, Sterling took over the mantle emphatically for the Mancunians (now 10/11 to win the Premier League), by striking his first ever career hat-trick in Sky Blue against Bournemouth.

Centre forward: Jamie Vardy (Leicester City)
In his usual roaming role, Vardy was yet again the catalyst for a fantastic Foxes scoreline. A draw away at Southampton is nothing to be sniffed at, and the Englishman was yet again electric, hitting both Leicester goals.

Related

So, we’ve made our player picks, but who made this matchweek’s Heroes and Villains? Read our verdict

Previous teams of the week are available to view in our Premier League archive