Here is how Newcastle United and Sunderland will line up for this afternoon’s match:
Newcastle starting XI: Alnwick, Janmaat, Coloccini, S. Taylor, Dummett, Sissoko, Colback, Tiote, Gouffran, Perez, Ameobi
Newcastle subs: Woodman, Haidara, Williamson, Cabella, Armstrong, Riviere, Cisse
Sunderland starting XI: Pantilimon, Reveillere, O’Shea, Vergini, Brown, Cattermole, Larsson, Gomez, Johnson, Wickham, Fletcher
Sunderland subs: Mannone, Bridcutt, Rodwell, Altidore, Alvarez, Coates, Buckley
Newcastle United welcome Sunderland to St James’ Park on Sunday lunchtime with the Magpies looking to get the better of Gus Poyet for the first time since the Uruguayan took charge of the Black Cats.
Sunderland are undefeated in their last five league meetings with today’s visitors winning the last two Tyne-Wear derbies at this ground 3-0.
Could they make it a hat-trick? It is certainly possible although this Newcastle side are a different proposition and Alan Pardew will want to get another victory under his belt prior to Christmas.
Newcastle’s recent home form has been brilliant and there is a good chance that could continue this weekend, except of course that when it comes to these matches, anything can happen.
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