Player Ratings vs Aston Villa (Home)

Tim Krul (7.5) - Made some good saves which kept us in it during the first half especially.

Danny Simpson (6) - Struggled a bit at times before he was replaced due to injury.

Steven Taylor (6.5) - Had a busy afternoon and made one or two mistakes, where he was turned too easily on one occasion and where he allowed Clark a free header for their goal but overall a decent enough showing.

Fabricio Coloccini (7.5) -  Looked solid, especially in the second half. Very cool and calm.

Davide Santon (8) - Hardly put a foot wrong. Did virtually all his defensive duties and went forward very nicely. The only fault in his game was his crossing but everything else was good.

Vurnon Anita (7) - Looked much better at right back than he did in midfield. Defended well and just looked more at home in the full back position.

Yohan Cabaye (6) - Took a great free kick towards the end which deserved a goal but otherwise his performance some would say, for the third game running, was below par. Not sure what the reason is but he does look below his best right now.

Jonas Gutierrez (7) - Had a better second half, as he saw more of the ball but he too hardly got crosses into the box today.

Hatem Ben Arfa (8.5) - Scored a stunning goal, which just sums up how good Ben Arfa is. A sweet strike from way out on his weaker foot. Looked dangerous although he did not see enough of the ball.

Demba Ba (6.5) - Worked hard but is not getting enough service to show his real quality.

Papiss Cisse (6) - Looked more hungry today but was unable to take any of the few chances he got in front of goal. Guzan was also in inspired form in goal for Villa.

Substitutes
Gael Bigirimana (8.5) - Came on in the first half and really impressed, especially if you consider he is only 18 year sold and playing his first game in the premier league. Passed the ball nicely, tackled well and made some important blocks. Looks a real talent.

Sylvain Marveaux (7) - Did a few good things but deserves more time on the pitch.

Gabriel Obertan (6.5) Linked up nicely with Ben Arfa late on in a good move but he too got very little time to really influence proceedings.

Newcastle United Man of the Match - Hatem Ben Arfa