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:
5. LB: Aji Alese
Alese made his long-awaited return in Sunderland’s win over Preston. It is a big boost to have the 22-year-old available again. Photo: Frank Reid
6. CM: Dan Neil
Another boyhood Sunderland fan who will be desperate to get a positive result in his first Wear-Tyne derby. Photo: Frank Reid
7. CM: Pierre Ekwah
Ekwah looked back to his best in the win over Preston, making important interceptions and assisting Alex Pritchard’s opener. Photo: Frank Reid
8. CAM: Alex Pritchard
Pritchard has registered a goal and three assists in his last six appearances for Sunderland - which only includes three starts. He was excellent drifting in from the right against Preston, when he opened the scoring with a fine strike. Photo: Frank Reid