Tyne-Wear derby with a difference as Sunderland and Newcastle stars battle it out for award

It comes after Sunderland's Jan Kirchhoff and Newcastle United winger Andros Townsend made the shortlist for the PFA Fans' Player of the Month for April.

Voting is open now and supporters can help their player win here:

The pair are battling it out with Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge for the gong.

Kirchhoff, a £750,000 January signing, has been a revelation in the holding midfield role for Sunderland since arriving earlier this year, with Townsend also playing a huge part in Newcastle's ongoing battle against the drop, including a stunning free-kick against Crystal Palace.

Voting will remain open until 10 am on Friday, May 6 so you can now help decide who you think deserves the honours for their performances.

The winners of each award will be announced later on Friday, May 6.

One voting fan - who is a resident in the UK or Ireland - in each division will win the chance to meet and present the award to the PFA Fans' Player of the Month.

Also, one of the winners will join the PFA's expert panel - which includes Sky Sports football pundits Paul Merson, Ian Holloway and Peter Beagrie - to help draw up May's shortlists.

Premier League PFA Fans' Player of the Month for April shortlist:

Andros Townsend (Newcastle United)

Daniel Sturridge (Liverpool)

Jan Kirchhoff (Sunderland)

Voting is open now and supporters can help their player win here: