Sunderland are preparing for their huge FA Cup match against Newcastle United at the Stadium of Light – but who will start for Michael Beale’s side?
It will be the first time the two clubs have met since March 2016 - a Premier League fixture which finished 1-1 at St James’ Park.
Sunderland should go into Saturday’s fixture with confidence following a 2-0 win over Preston on New Year’s Day in Michael Beale’s fourth game in charge. Newcastle, meanwhile, have suffered three successive league defeats, with Eddie Howe’s side losing 4-2 against Liverpool last time out.
Here’s our predicted Sunderland team to face Newcastle:
1. GK: Anthony Patterson
Patterson kept his eighth clean sheet of the season in the 2-0 win over Preston. The boyhood Sunderland fan will be looking forward to his first Wear-Tyne derby. Photo: Frank Reid
2. LB: Trai Hume
While Hume has played on both sides of defence this season, he returned to his natural right-back spot against Preston following Aji Alese’s return from injury. Photo: Frank Reid
3. CB: Luke O’Nien
O’Nien has captained Sunderland this season with Corry Evans still sidelined with an injury. The 29-year-old will embrace the chance to lead the Black Cats out against their North East rivals. Photo: Frank Reid
4. CB: Dan Ballard
Ballard has missed just one league game for Sunderland this season, due to a suspension, and was dominant in the air against Preston. Photo: Frank Reid