Sunderland undoubtedly have had the upper hand over arch rivals Newcastle United when it comes to the Tyne Wear derby in recent years.
Midfielder Jack Rodwell hopes that it is the case once again when the two teams meet each other at the Stadium of Light this weekend. Rodwell’s participation in the match is going to be highly doubtful, but after having completed 90 minutes of action against West Ham in the 1-0 defeat, he will be confident. Winger Adam Johnson has been a key part in this fixture over the last couple of years. He has scored in the last two Tyne Wear derbies.
Sunderland will be given a huge lift due to the presence of a new manager on the dugout. Dick Advocaat failed to lead his team to victory in his first match, but all that will be forgotten by the Sunderland faithful if the club manage yet another victory over Newcastle, who are having yet another comfortable end to the season. Newcastle caretaker manager John Carver will be aware that his team will be safe from relegation if we get another victory under their belt and he has eight matches to do so. Hence, it is quite possible that Newcastle will not be sharp for this encounter.
“(A win) would be massive.It’s like a double win really, the derby.The three points is the most important thing now, but if we can win that derby, it would just put a special shine on the season, with two derby victories.Like I said, the most important thing is staying up and getting as many points as possible, but I think all the focus now is on this game. Everyone is buzzing. It’s my first derby at the Stadium of Light, so I’m really looking forward to it and hopefully we can have a great game,” said Rodwell.