Sunderland are preparing for one of their biggest matches since they were relegated back in 2017.
Well, Sunderland have arguably played many more ‘important’ games than the Wear-Tyne derby over the years, including four sets of play-offs with only one resulting in promotion.
But this weekend’s FA Cup meeting with Newcastle United is the one that brings out the anger, the excitement and the nerves. No other match in English football has Sunderland and Newcastle fans feeling the way they will heading into kick-off tomorrow afternoon.
There isn’t a single Sunderland player that has played in the Wear-Tyne derby before though, and so we will be heavily relying on the experienced, the talented and those who have grown up watching these derby matches every season.
Michael Beale needs every single player to be at their best, to get stuck in and to understand exactly what this means to us.
But for me, there are three people that could really make the difference. Three players who, if they play their cards right, could turn the game on its head.
Here are the three Sunderland stars that could be very important on Wearside tomorrow…
Dan Neil
Dan Neil is perhaps the most obvious one. The midfielder was born in South Shields and joined Sunderland at only nine years old.
Neil is Sunderland born and bred, and he is one of few that will know exactly what this means, because he has always been a fan himself.
Previously standing in for Luke O’Nien as captain, Neil has the leadership quality, grit and determination to drive this squad and show himself as a great example to others.
The 22-year-old is also a key asset when at his best. He is able to get back and defend, while also pinging some brilliant balls over the top.
Luke O’Nien
Luke O’Nien is our captain and leader for a reason – and not just because Corry Evans is still injured.
The defender is the perfect leader and motivator, and a game like the derby actually seems perfect for him. Well, as long as he can avoid getting sent off that is.
O’Nien knows exactly how to entice atmosphere, while also riling up the opposition. That is exactly what we need if we are to get anything out of this game – frustrate them, anger them, be Luke O’Nien.
If the centre-back plays like he did against Preston then we can expect a tough day for their attack.
Trai Hume
Arguably our best defender on his day, Trai Hume is going to have to put on an exceptional performance tomorrow to stop Anthony Gordon.
The Newcastle United forward has been exceptional this season and could well be their biggest threat, but Hume is the one player I trust to stop him.
The full-back has won more tackles than any other player in the Championship this season (88). He absolutely loves a tackle and knows exactly how to perfectly time it so he gets the ball, sends the man flying and also has the crowd cheering his name.
If Hume can pull it off, he will have Anthony Gordon in his back pocket. Fingers crossed.