Sunderland goalkeeper, Anthony Patterson has been discussing the FA Cup clash against Newcastle United showing his excitement for the derby.
Coming up this week for Sunderland is the first Tyne-Wear derby for 13 years as they welcome Newcastle to the Stadium of Light.
It has been an up-and-down start to life at the club for Michael Beale after a win, draw and defeat in his three games.
This week sees the Black Cats first host Preston North End before their FA Cup campaign begins with a derby clash.
The last time that these two faced each other was in 2016 when a 1-1 draw saw Jermaine Defoe help secure a point. Before that, Sunderland haven’t lost in the derby since 2011 and have won six of the past nine according to 11v11.
With that being said, there is an excitement for the game building with both fans and players getting caught up in it.
What has Anthony Patterson said?
As a lad from North Shields, it is safe to say that this game will mean as much to Anthony Patterson as anyone else.
His career started at Sunderland and has so far lasted over 100 appearances, according to FotMob. A first Tyne-Wear derby is now in his sights as a player rather than being just a fan.
Speaking with the Sunderland Echo, the goalkeeper has been discussing his memories of the derby in years gone by. On that, he said: “They are special games. Borini’s goal, I was there for that one. Defoe’s goal, some good goals. It’s a crazy atmosphere and I can’t wait.”
It is safe to say that this game is more than just an FA Cup clash and will mean a lot to Patterson to be playing in.
Continuing on, Patterson added: “I was buzzing obviously. It’s a great game to be involved in. I think all the lads in the dressing room are in the same boat as me, whether they are from up here or elsewhere.
“I think a lot of the lads are aware of how big a game it is and how special an occasion it’s going to be with the atmosphere and all the rest of it. Everyone is well aware.”
There are other boyhood Sunderland fans in Beale’s squad including Dan Neil, who will be up for this one like no one else. The atmosphere will be raucous as the Magpies are welcomed into the cauldron of the Stadium of Light.