The former Leeds left-back knows how big this weekend's Stadium of Light showdown – and will be used to the red-hot atmosphere from his Elland Road clashes with hated rivals Manchester United.

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The 30-year-old Irishman said: "We've got a massive game on Saturday to focus on and we have to channel all our frustration from the game on Monday night into that one.

"I know Newcastle had a poor result last weekend against Portsmouth and they will be looking to recover from that as quickly as possible as well.

"But we'll be playing in front of a full house in front of our own supporters and we know we can bounce back.

"We need to give a good performance for ourselves, but also to lift the fans as well."

Harte will hope to keep his place at left-back, despite the return from suspension of Paul McShane, who had been one of the first names on Roy Keane's teamsheet prior to his sending-off at Arsenal on October 6.

McShane's availability could see him back at right-back, forcing Nyron Nosworthy to return to a central defensive role. It's an intriguing conundrum for Keane, as Danny Collins was arguably one of his better performers in Monday's defeat at Manchester City – in his preferred centre-back slot – but could be switched back to left-back, at Harte's expense.

Sunderland have not won in six matches – since September's 2-1 home victory over Reading – and also have the weight of history against them in the derby stakes, having not beaten Newcastle on Wearside in 27 years.

The Black Cats could not find a better time to start picking points up again than this weekend's lunchtime kick-off.

Sunderland matched Manchester City for most of Monday's match, yet still came away pointless – and a cutting edge up front will be required against the Magpies.

"City didn't play too well and it was a great opportunity to take three points, but we failed to do that," added Harte.

"I think everyone at the club is sick and tired of having to talk about playing well but not taking any points.

"I'm sure the manager is sick and tired of having to face people after another defeat and saying the same things as well. We've only got ourselves to blame.

"I've sat on the bench a lot this season and watched too many games like the one at Man City where we've played well and not got anything to show for it.

"Ultimately, we haven't got any points from the game and that's all that counts."