EPL Preview: Newcastle United vs Sunderland

Newcastle United take on Sunderland in a weekend Premier League clash at St James's Park on Sunday, 20 March.

Overview

Newcastle are struggling this season in the league, which saw them sack their manager Steve McClaren and replace him with Rafael Benitez. His task is cut out as he has to ensure that his side avoids relegation. Benitez's first match in charge was against league leaders Leicester City, which the Magpies lost 1-0. The former Real Madrid manager will be looking for his first win as the manager of Newcastle on Sunday.

Sunderland come into the fixture after their last tie against Southampton ended in a 1-1 draw. They have just one win in last five matches and Sam Allardyce will be looking to guide his side towards another win over their arch-rivals. The Black Cats have won the last six league fixtures during the Tyne-Wear derby. Sunderland will be looking to extend that run when they face Newcastle at St James's Park on Sunday.

What managers say

Rafael Benitez: " I am sure if we win this game, you will see a really positive reaction from the team and they will believe. We know every game between now and the end of the season is important, but especially this one. A derby is massive for the city and the fans."

Sam Allardyce: "The size of your fanbase makes the atmosphere in the stadium when things are going well and they're getting behind the team. It can affect the team in the right way, but the opposite of that is you've got to give them the entertainment value they so desperately need to get behind you, and they will, wherever you go – none more so than here or at Newcastle."