Picking the Premier League Team of the Weekend

GK: Ali Al-Habsi - It may seem strange to feature a goalkeeper that has conceded twice in a team of the weekend, but Al-Habsi's all-round performance deserves mention. Could do little to stop either Everton goal - one a penalty - and kept the visitors out with regularity including many excellent reflex saves.

Unlucky to miss out: Alex McCarthy

RB: Carl Jenkinson - A position in which nobody really stood out this week, but Jenkinson did enough to secure his place. The youngster continued his development with a solid if not unspectacular display, showing strong defensive abilities and an option going forward. In this form, Arsenal aren't suffering much with the absence of Bacary Sagna.

Unlucky to miss out: Sascha Riether

CB: Micah Richards - A return to the side was handed to Richards, following injuries to Kompany and Nastasic, and he took the opportunity to impress with great conviction. Playing in a position he excelled in alongside Richard Dunne five years ago, Richards returned to shut Norwich out with a mature, powerful display. Better in the centre than at full back? I'd say so.

Unlucky to miss out: Daniel Agger

CB: Jose Fonte - Without a goal for Southampton before yesterday's game against Fulham, Fonte's two goals proved vital in securing Southampton a much needed point. Defended solidly throughout the game to nullify the threat of Rodallega particularly and cannot be held accountable for the defensive errors that almost gave Fulham victory.

Unlucky to miss out: Jonny Evans

LB: Patrice Evra - Many have claimed that the Frenchman is 'past it'. Not based on his performance against Newcastle yesterday. Evra was solid in defence, restricting the opportunities for the right sided Newcastle players, whilst also providing an attacking threat going forward. Beautiful header for United's second secured place.

Unlucky to miss out: Aleksandar Kolarov

RM: Juan Mata - Perhaps not the position in which Mata stuck to, but it was impossible not to have the Chelsea man in this weeks team of the week. The understanding Mata is developing with Hazard and Oscar is a beauty to witness and Mata arguably shone brightest against Norwich. His slipped pass through for Hazard's goal was nothing short of exceptional.

Unlucky to miss out: James Milner

CM: Moussa Dembele - It wouldn't be a team of the weekend without a Belgian presence. In the centre of park against Villa Dembele produced a masterclass display in ball retention and composure, regularly breaking forward with purpose and intent. May not stand out on the highlight reels, but his presence alone strikes fear into opponents.

Unlucky to miss out: Esteban Granero

CM: Youssuf Mulumbu - So often in teams of the week, defensive minded midfielders suffer from the Match of the Day coverage that favours the more attacking-minded. It is therefore time that Mulumbu receives the credit he deserves as one of the league's most underrated. Breaks up play, with unstoppable strength and superb determination. Could add to any of the Champions League clubs squads.

Unlucky to miss out: Mikel Arteta

LM: Santi Cazorla - Certainly not an 'unearthed gem' as Motty described on Match of the Day, but definitely a fantastic purchase and arguably the signing of the season so far. West Ham's midfield struggled to cope with the qualities he has that are capable of pulling a team apart, making the game look effortless. Imagine how strong Arsenal could've been with Cazorla feeding RVP last season.

Unlucky to miss out: Eden Hazard

ST: Arouna Kone - Power and Pace were the order of the day for Wigan's attack versus Everton, a strategy that particularly complimented Kone's game. Evertons defence largely struggled against the Ivorian who picked up another league goal to add to his tally. Could have had a second were it not for a fantastic Phil Jagielka saving tackle.

Unlucky to miss out: Shane Long

ST: Wayne Rooney - Showed how equally important he is to the United cause as Van Persie with a vibrant showing at St James' Park. Buzzed around the makeshift partnership of Williamson and Perch constantly, creating chances for fun and pressured the Newcastle defence into rushed decisions. The desire to get back and help the team also is an astounding feature of his game.

Unlucky to miss out: Tevez

image: © Ronnie Macdonald