Match Focus: Big Sam Gunning for Glory on Stadium of Light Bow
Already looking likely to be a crucial battle ahead of a potential relegation scrap, there is more than mere bragging rights up for grabs in Sunday's Wear-Tyne derby. The game not only reignites a fierce rivalry but also represents Sam Allardyce's first game in charge of the Black Cats at the Stadium of Light and a chance for the Sunderland boss to get one over on his former employers.
The game follows the pattern of a new Sunderland manager taking charge of this local derby in only their second game at the club, with Paolo Di Canio, Gus Poyet and Dick Advocaat all managing victories in said encounters. Each of those managers, like Allardyce, had lost their opening game at the helm so the new boss will be hoping to continue the trend this weekend. Sunderland have actually won each of their last 5 matches against Newcastle, conceding just once in that time.
However, while the hosts are still searching for their first win of the season Newcastle managed that feat in emphatic fashion last time out, hitting Norwich for six. It was the culmination of what had been an upturn in form despite being thumped by City, having gone into the interval level against the league leaders, coming very close to a victory over champions Chelsea the week before. McClaren's men are beginning to find their feet in front of goal, with Mitrovic improving all the time and Wijnaldum in scintillating form last time out.
The Dutchman scored 4 goals to take his tally for his new club to 6 and will be keen to add to that in his first derby with the Magpies. He is currently Newcastle's highest rated player according to WhoScored (7.20) so it will be up to Sunderland's star man this season to limit Wijnaldum's influence. Like his opponent this weekend the arrival of Yann M'Vila was deemed something of a coup on Wearside and he too has made a strong start to life in England, also gaining his side's highest score from WhoScored (7.28).
Who do you think will come out on top when Sunderland host Newcastle? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below
