FA Cup: Sunderland vs Newcastle: Predicted lineup, injury news, head-to-head, telecast

Sunderland and Newcastle renew their Tyne-Wear rivalry for the first time in seven years

For a significant duration, the Black Cats primarily competed in League One but made their way back to the Championship last year, aiming once more for a shot at the playoffs this season. Sunderland have the chance to make four wins in a row against the Magpies for the first-time in the history of their historic rivalry.

Newcastle, on the other hand, experienced relegation during that period. However, their fortunes drastically changed following a takeover supported by Saudi interests. This season, they made a remarkable return to the Champions League, highlighted by a resounding victory against Paris Saint-Germain. Yet, their campaign concluded prematurely as they exited the group stage.

Kick-Off:

Saturday; 6 January 2024, 12:45 PM GMT (06:15 PM IST)

Location: Stadium of Light

Form

Sunderland (all competitions): L-L-W-D-W

Newcastle (all competitions): W-L-L-L-L

Players to watch

Jack Clarke (Sunderland)

Clarke, a versatile forward, adeptly operates as a winger on both flanks or assumes the role of a striker. His hallmark includes exceptional speed, impressive dribbling prowess, and the capacity to challenge and maneuver past defenders when carrying the ball. The 23-year-old has been the top goalscorer for the club this season, he has scored 12 goals in 26 appearances this season.

Alexander Isak (Newcastle)

Alexander Isak is a dynamic forward known for his versatile playing style. His primary strengths lie in his exceptional speed, agility, and technical proficiency on the ball. Isak’s ability to play with both feet enables him to navigate through defenders effectively, making him a potent threat in one-on-one situations. He has scored 11 goals already this season in all competitions.

Match Facts

• Sunderland have won their last two FA Cup ties against Newcastle.
• Newcastle are winless in their last nine meeting with Sunderland in all competitions.
• Sunderland have won their last three home games against Newcastle in all competitions.

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Injury and Team News

Sunderland will evaluate Patrick Roberts before the upcoming match following his absence from the victory against Preston due to a muscle injury. Adoullah Ba will likely continue standing in if the midfielder isn’t deemed fit. Alex Pritchard will be vying to retain his spot in the team after scoring the opening goal in the previous game.

Newcastle is uncertain about Kieran Trippier’s fitness, having missed the defeat against Liverpool due to a groin injury. Additionally, Callum Wilson is anticipated to be sidelined due to a calf issue, and Joe Willock is not expected to return in time for the match. Jacob Murphy, Harvey Barnes, and Matt Targett are slated to make their comebacks by the end of January or early February.

Head-to-Head

Matches: 155

Sunderland: 53

Newcastle: 53

Draws: 49

Predicted lineup

Sunderland predicted lineup (4-2-3-1)

Patterson; Hume, O’Nien, Ballard, Alese; Ekwah, Neil; Pritchard, Bellingham, Clarke; Rusyn

Newcastle predicted lineup (4-3-3)

Dubravka; Burn, Botman, Schar, Livramento; Longstaff, Guimaraes, Miley; Joelinton, Isak, Gordon

Match prediction for Sunderland vs Newcastle

This match carries the potential for an FA Cup classic, leaning towards Sunderland’s favor. Newcastle’s form slump and injury concerns contrast with Sunderland’s resurgence under Michael Beale, especially as they regain momentum before the game, boosted by the support of their home crowd.

On paper, Newcastle boasts a superior team in nearly every position. However, their recent match, where they faced the risk of conceding double-digit goals on Monday, leaves uncertainty about their current condition and readiness.

Prediction: Sunderland 1-2 Newcastle

Telecast

India: Sony LIV

UK: BBC

USA: ESPN+

Nigeria: Supersport

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