For the first time since 2016, it’s derby day at St James’ Park, and the stakes are as high as ever for Eddie Howe and Newcastle United.
After some interesting results earlier this weekend elsewhere in the league, a win today could put us within touching distance of the Champions League qualifying positions.
And a win today will be the perfect bounce back from the disappointment of the Barcelona clash midweek, particularly against a Sunderland side blighted by injuries in key positions.
Here’s how the teams line-up on Sunday lunchtime:
**Newcastle XI:** Ramsdale – Trippier, Botman, Burn Hall – Ramsey, Joelinton, Woltemade – Elanga, Gordon, Barnes
**Substitutes:** Pope, Wissa, Thiaw, Osula, Livramento, J.Murphy, Neave, Willock, A.Murphy
**Sunderland XI:** Ellborg – Geertruida, O’Nien, Alderete, Hume – Xhaka, Sadiki, Diarra – Rigg, Talbi, Brobbey
Eddie Howe has made two changes from Wednesday’s bashing in Barcelona, as Malick Thiaw and Joe Willock make way for Sven Botman and Nick Woltemade.
The big miss in midfield is Sandro Tonali, having suffered an injury at the Camp Nou, with Howe opting for a very attacking midfield of Nick Woltemade, Jacob Ramsey and Joelinton instead.
It’s an unchanged front three, as Anthony Gordon will be looking to get back on the scoresheet, whilst Anthony Elanga will be aiming to add to his surprise brace versus Barcelona.
As expected, Lewis Miley and Bruno Guimaraes remain out, along with Fabian Schar and Emil Krafth.
For the visitors, Regis Le Bris is without the ever-reliable Robin Roefs, as the Dutch goalkeeper misses his third game in a row through a hamstring injury.
Also missing for the Mackems are squad stalwarts Nordi Mukiele and Dan Ballard, whilst Enzo Le Fee and Reinildo return on the bench.
There’s more than just three points up for grabs today: one of the statement performances of the season is needed, HOWAY THE LADS!