Peter Lovenkrands, Nikos Dabizas and David Batty: Newcastle United’s unsung XI

St James’ Park is usually home to a crowd-pleaser or two that every young Geordie is desperate to have on the back of their shirt. Alan Shearer, Peter Beardsley and David Ginola were three players from yesteryear who earned plenty of plaudits for their eye-catching displays.

In recent times, Allan Saint-Maximin has carried the burden of keeping Toon supporters on the edge of their seats. The club shop sells thousands of replica shirts with the Frenchman’s name emblazoned on the back.

However, there have also been dozens of players who, despite not receiving a pat on the back every week, still turned up and put 110% effort in for the black-and-white cause. ChronicleLive has compiled a list of the grafters and triers who deserve more recognition for their time on Tyneside.

Here is our Newcastle United “unsung XI” of the Premier League era. Do you agree?

Almost a quarter of Harper’s appearances (45) came in one season - the 2009-10 Championship-winning campaign. The majority of the goalkeeper’s time at the club was spent as a backup goalkeeper, first to Pavel Srnicek and Shaka Hislop and then to long-standing number one Shay Given.

His acceptance as understudy prevented Newcastle managers many a headache over the years but Harper rarely let the side down when called upon. A 20-year career at the club came to an emotional end in 2013.

One of the most versatile players in Newcastle’s history, Watson would play anywhere to represent Newcastle. A right-back by trade, that place was usually occupied by Warren Barton during the “Entertainers” era.

Watson wore every kit number from 2-11 during his eight-year stint in the first-team ranks, playing in midfield and even as a wide forward for the Magpies. The only position he never