Ladies and gentlemen, it is nearly time for the first Tyne-Wear derby in the Premier League since March 2016.
That is right, it has been close to 10 years since Sunderland and Newcastle locked horns in the top flight, but that all changes this Sunday at the Stadium of Light.
Before a ball was kicked this season, you would have been mocked for predicting the Black Cats would be in a higher position ahead of kick-off.
But that is exactly the case, although just a single point separates the sides, which only adds to the storyline brewing in north east England.
Check out our full Sunderland vs Newcastle preview right here, and you can also browse the latest Premier League odds available on NetBet.
Also, if you are looking to include this fixture in a combo bet, our Acca Boost feature can increase your potential winnings by up to 50%.
Where can I watch Sunderland vs Newcastle in the UK?
Sunderland vs Newcastle will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Main Event, with kick-off scheduled for 2pm UK time.
Sunderland vs Newcastle Preview
Recent results
After a stunning start to the season, Sunderland have won just one of the last six in the league following a 3-0 loss at Manchester City last time out.
But the Black Cats came from 2-0 down to beat Bournemouth 3-2 in their previous home outing – and are yet to lose at the Stadium of Light this term!
Newcastle have won three of the last four in the top flight after last weekend’s 2-1 win over Burnley, and their previous away trip was a huge 4-1 success at Everton.
However, that is the only victory Eddie Howe’s men have tasted on the road in the Premier League, the Magpies losing 3-1 at Brentford at the start of November.
Head-to-head record
These two sides met in the FA Cup last year, with Newcastle cruising to a 3-0 victory. However, Sunderland boast a great Premier League record vs their fierce local rivals.
The Black Cats have won six of the last seven top-flight editions of this derby, though things have changed quite a bit since the last meeting in March 2016, with Newcastle now playing Champions League football!
Team news
Luke O’Nien is suspended for Sunderland following his red card at the Etihad, while Reinildo is a minor injury doubt. Aside from that, Regis Le Bris has a fairly clean bill of health.
Kieran Trippier and Nick Pope remain absent for Newcastle, while Sven Botman and Joelinton are doubts. But Yoane Wissa is available for selection after debuting vs Burnley.
Sunderland vs Newcastle Odds
*All odds are subject to change
Sunderland are slight underdogs ahead of the derby, priced at 3.25 to claim the win. A Newcastle victory is at odds of 2.24, while the draw is 3.23.
Sunderland vs Newcastle Betting Tips
Player to score or assist – Granit Xhaka @ 3.70
Xhaka has arguably been the signing of the season thanks to a string of wonderful and commanding midfield performances. And as well as keeping Sunderland ticking, the Swiss maestro has contributed in the final third with a goal and four assists. With Xhaka usually on set-piece duty, he can make a mockery of his odds here.
Both teams to receive two or more cards – Yes @ 1.57
Tyne-Wear derbies are never short of yellow cards. When the two sides met in the FA Cup last year, Sunderland picked up four cautions and Newcastle – despite cruising to victory – collected two. So this feels a pretty safe discipline-themed bet.
Daniel Ballard to have over 0.5 shots on target @ 3.25
We mentioned Xhaka’s set-piece delivery from free-kicks and corners, and Ballard is someone who can benefit from them. The muscular centre-back has scored twice in the Premier League this season, registering five shots on target overall. While those numbers are not amazing, set-pieces could play a major role in this derby – and Ballard is the man to keep an eye on whenever Xhaka launches the ball into the Newcastle box.
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