Where Sunday’s Tyne-Wear derby could be won as Sunderland visit Newcastle | OneFootball

The Tyne-Wear derby returns on Sunday lunchtime at St James' Park, with Sunderland chasing a league double over Newcastle United and aiming to extend their strong recent record in the fixture.

Sunderland Echo highlights that the contest could hinge on specific tactical battles as Regis Le Bris and Eddie Howe weigh selection calls.

The influence of Granit Xhaka on and off the ball will be vital against a Magpies engine room rich in power and energy. Stopping Sandro Tonali and Joelinton imposing themselves could be decisive, and first-time away derby participants Habib Diarra and Noah Sadiki may need to meet that challenge.

The return of England international Tino Livramento has lifted Newcastle, and alongside former Chelsea full-back Lewis Hall their overlapping runs can reshape the hosts’ attacking play. Sunderland’s wide players will need to work both ways to curb those threats.

Brobbey has been a robust focal point in his first season on Wearside, troubling some of the Premier League’s strongest defenders. With Newcastle likely to look to dominate possession in front of the home crowd, his duels with Dan Burn and Malick Thiaw could help Sunderland retain the ball high up and relieve pressure.

If they edge these areas, the Black Cats could tilt the derby their way.

Source: Sunderland Echo