Granit Xhaka sends 'powerful' 116-word Newcastle United message to Sunderland supporters ahead of derby clash
Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka has addressed supporters ahead of Sunday’s derby clash against Newcastle United at the Stadium of Light.
Sunderland hosts Newcastle United for the first time in a Premier League match in over a decade.
The newly-promoted Black Cats have enjoyed a strong return to the top flight so far and head into the game unbeaten at the Stadium of Light in the league.
Newcastle sit a point below their rivals, 15 games into the league season and have won just once away from home in the Premier League since April. That win came last time out away from home against Everton, where Eddie Howe’s side secured a 4-1 win.
The Magpies head into the game on the back of a positive run of form that has seen them pick up 10 points from their last four Premier League matches since the international break, including wins over Manchester City, Everton and Burnley as well as a 2-2 draw with Tottenham Hotspur.
But Newcastle’s lack of clean sheets and tendency to concede late on and from set-piece situations has been higlighted ahead of the derby match, given it’s a particular strength of Sunderland’s.
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Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka previews derby clash
Captain Granit Xhaka addressed supporters in his matchday programme column. The 33-year-old midfielder joined Sunderland from Bayer Leverkusen in the summer and has brought a wealth of experience and quality to Sunderland’s midfield.
The Swiss international has quickly become a fan favourite on Wearside and is looking ahead to his first Tyne-Wear derby clash. Having played in several North London derbies between Arsenal and Spurs, Xhaka described Sunday’s as ‘different’ and ‘unique’.
“Today’s game is one I know means so much to all of you,” Xhaka wrote. “I’ve played in many derbies in my career, but everyone has told me this one is different - something unique, something powerful for the club, the supporters, and the region.
“It’s a special occasion, and we have to rise to it. We’re playing at home, in front of our own fans, and we must fight for every ball, every moment.”
Since the last Premier League encounter between the sides. Sunderland have been relegated to League One and bounced back to the top flight while Newcastle have twice qualified for the Champions League and won the Carabao Cup last season.
"Newcastle are a very strong team who have built well over the past few years and are competing at a high level,” Xhaka admitted.
"We respect their quality, but we believe in what we are doing, and we've prepared well for this challenge."
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Eddie Howe looks ahead to derby clash
Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe won his first ever derby clash with Sunderland 3-0 in the FA Cup back in January 2024 and, like Xhaka, is well aware of the importance of the fixture.
Looking ahead to the match, Howe said: “I look at these games as positives. I want to experience the biggest games possible. I think you want to throw yourself into the biggest challenges possible.
“And I think this game will be one that we'll always remember. Hopefully for the right reasons. Hopefully because someone's made the difference and created a memorable moment for our supporters.