Grant: We can be heroes
Grant Leadbitter wants to join Sunderland chairman Niall Quinn in Wearside's list of derby legends.
The Black Cats' midfielder is the only Mackem in the team and preparing for his first action in a Wear-Tyne clash.
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Having enjoyed watching Sunderland's famous 2-1 victories on Tyneside in 1999 and 2000, when Quinn was a player, Leadbitter dreams of making his own impact and ending the 27-year wait for a home derby win.
The Fence Houses playmaker said: "Winning at St James's with Quinny and Kev Phillips scoring in the rain was fantastic. But I want my own memories as a player, not ones about the teams of the past.
"The Sunderland fans might be a bit nervous about it, but I'm sure they're looking forward to it as well.
"You talk about pressure in these games, but I'm just excited. Being a local lad in the derby is massive.
"I know what it's all about, but all of the lads do too.
"I never think about losing – and especially not against Newcastle."
Leadbitter was an unused substitute when Newcastle ran out 4-1 winners at the Stadium of Light in April last year.
Michael Chopra, now with Sunderland, was one of the Toon's goal heroes, scoring their second-half equaliser before the visitors raced away with it.
Leadbitter smiled: "Let's just say I've had a word with Chops about that one!
"It was a horrible day for anyone involved with Sunderland, whether you were a player or supporter.
"Hopefully it'll be a better day tomorrow."
The 21-year-old reckons victory in the Wear-Tyne derby could revitalise Sunderland's season.
The Black Cats have won only twice all campaign and sit just one point clear of the drop zone going into tomorrow's clash.
It is a huge encounter for Roy Keane's men.
The Fence Houses midfielder added: "Massive. There's no other word to describe it. I've had my phone off in the last week or so because all people want to talk about or text me about is the derby.
"It's a great game for us to look forward to. If we can win, it could be the game that turns our season round. I'll be very happy if we can do that."
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Weather for Sunderland
Friday 10 February 2012
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