Newcastle United news: Sissoko's verdict on Benitez and the derby, Armstrong talks

Sissoko has been talking about new manager Rafa Benitez's arrival ahead of Sunday's Tyne-Wear derby.

And the midfielder says Newcastle now have a better chance of staying up.

Sissoko – who struggled for form under McClaren – has also spoken about the importance of Sunderland's visit to St James's Park.

Benitez has named two players who could make their comebacks in the derby.

Meanwhile, there have been calls for in-form forward Adam Armstrong to be recalled by Newcastle.

And we have news of talks between Benitez and Armstrong, on loan at Coventry City.