Xhaka lauds Sunderland’s grit after Tyne-Wear fightback: Talbi and Brobbey seal dramatic win at St James’ Park | OneFootball

Granit Xhaka praised Sunderland's personality after the club's comeback win in the Tyne-Wear derby.

Sunderland recovered from a goal down at half-time to record their secondPremier League win over Newcastle United this season, as goals from Chemsdine Talbi and Brian Brobbey sealed success at St James' Park.

Regis le Bris's side had fallen behind to an early Anthony Gordon goal, but regrouped at the interval to battle back into the game.

Brobbey's 90th-minute winner sparked wild celebrations from the travelling fans, as Sunderland stretched their unbeaten league run against Newcastle to 11 games. Sunderland skipper Xhaka praised the performance and personality from his side.

"If you want to play these games you need personality. It's not easy to play here," Xhaka toldSky Sports.

"We knew before the game what it means to come here to take something or to win. If you see all the game, three points are deserved. We didn't find solutions in the beginning. It's part of the game, a part of our journey. We spoke at half-time about things, we changed and second half was nearly perfect."

Sunderland head coach Le Bris reflected proudly on the performance and said the team's togetherness saw them through on Tyneside.

"We didn't start well with an early mistake. We stayed composed, well-aligned with what we wanted to do. It's a tough place, they are intense with their crowd but the team reacted well.

"We were emotional at half-time because it matters, this game is important and we didn't want to lose. We stayed together, pushed together and the second half was good for that. We suffered at times but we enjoyed as well some opportunities and played good football.

"It was about the whole event. We want to win and to be proud of our club. I really appreciated the second half, even the way the team reacted after the goal conceded, stay calm, stay composed and seize your opportunity when it comes."