Exclusive:'Absolutely capable' - Ex-Sunderland star David Connolly delivers optimistic Wear-Tyne Derby verdict

Former Sunderland striker David Connolly has delivered his verdict on Sunday’s looming Wear-Tyne Derby, insisting that his old club are more than capable of earning a positive result against Newcastle United.

The Black Cats host the Magpies at the Stadium of Light in a 2pm kick-off, and will be aiming to enact revenge for the 3-0 defeat they suffered when the two sides last met back in January 2024. That match was, of course, an FA Cup third round clash that came while Sunderland were still in the Championship, and as such, this weekend’s meeting will be the first top flight showdown between the North East rivals since 2016.

But after starting the season at a stellar pace, Connolly believes that Regis Le Bris’ side can head into the encounter with plenty of confidence.

What did David Connolly say about Sunderland’s chances vs Newcastle United?

Reflecting on his own time on Wearside during an exclusive conversation with The Echo via slots in the uk, Connolly said: “I was injured, I think. I had a lot of groin problems and my hip operated on and I didn't play in some [derbies]. But obviously, I do know that, yeah, this is a huge game and it's great, obviously, that Sunderland are in the Premier League competing in these games again.

“I guess it's arguably the biggest game of the season, certainly for the fans. But I guess more so than that is the way that, it’s - certainly this season - how the team is playing. I mean, they’re doing so well. And, you know, I had two kids born in Sunderland, so it's not one of those things where you just play for Sunderland and you don't think about them too much. They'll always have a spot, a place, and you look back fondly on the time there. So I hope they do well in it.

“But I think they want to do well because there are points at stake and it's a massive game... and the build-up with the players and the fans, etc. But I think more than that, the fact that they're doing so well at the minute means they're going into it like - I know it'll be a tough game - but going into it on very much equal footing. They could really get something out of this game.

“So, you know, there'll be a lot of build-up, obviously. Everyone will want to play. The manager will have a decision... I know he's flipped around loads of different formations and he's been very creative in terms of how he's gone to win games - you know, back three, back four, two up front, one up front, pack the midfield, etc. It'll be a tough game, make no mistake, but at home, the place will be bouncing. I'm hoping that obviously the lads play well and they get a decent result.”

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When asked if a victory for Sunderland would mark a notable statement of intent, Connolly continued: “Yeah, absolutely. I think I was reading the other day that they've collected more points now at home than they did the last time they were in the Premier League. So that just shows you how strong they are at home. And, you know, it could be 90 minutes, could be 95 minutes, could be 100 minutes the way they're playing, you know - they’ve had that character to get results, get goals, however it may be. And they've got lads, like the signings, who have come in and done well.

“I'm sure they've had a tough run of games, make no mistake - this is another tough one. But they are at home and absolutely capable of getting a decent result. And as you know, in and around the football club, it can just make everything ‘well’ for that next period of time. So, yeah, if you're a player, you'll want to play in it and obviously you'll want to win it.”

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