Alan Shearer issues Sunderland vs Newcastle verdict - and ends with cheeky dig!

Derby day is back tomorrow and nerves are building across the North East ahead of our first Premier League game at the Stadium of Light in 10 years.

Few know what it feels like to play in a derby more than Alan Shearer, who scored on Wearside with his last kick in professional football, and he's been sharing his thoughts ahead of the match.

Shearer highlights the fact Sunderland have won only one of their last six, but insists that these games are rarely about form, with desire, discipline and moments of quality in the midst of the madness likely to prove pivotal.

Big Al is concerned by our habit of conceding late goals and wonders if Sunderland may benefit slightly from not having a midweek game, although jokes Champions League football is something the Mackems could 'only dream of' despite their strong form since promotion!

Speaking to Betfair ahead of tomorrow's 2pm kick-off, our former No 9 said:

"I guess any time is a perfect time to play Sunderland because they're great games to play in.

"They've only won one in six but did go to Anfield and put in a really good performance. You have to give them credit for the way they've started the season. No one thought they'd do what they've done so far so they deserve credit for that.

"It doesn't matter what form you're in for these games. They're great for many reasons. Let's hope, from a Newcastle point of view, they get the same result as in the FA Cup a couple of years ago because they need a bit of consistency.

"I think it's a good sign that Newcastle were disappointed to come away with a draw against Leverkusen. They have to stop conceding late goals but in the grand scheme of things, they went there and got another point.

"That's a plus for Sunderland that they're at home getting prepared and have had a free week whilst Newcastle were away in the Champions League, which they could only dream of!"

As for his prediction, Shearer backed Newcastle to get the job done:

“As tough as it’s going to be, I do think Newcastle will go there and win. 

“Sometimes you’re better off flipping a coin because forget about form, who’s doing well.. it doesn’t matter. It’s a derby and we all know what happens.

"I hope the referee is strong and allows one or two things to go because that adds to the excitement. I’ll go for an away win. I’m looking forward to it. I can’t wait."

Looking at form, you could point to Sunderland winning just one of six, while Newcastle have lost just once in that same period. Yet, mixed into that is the Mackems' impressive home record, with them yet to lose a game on Wearside all season.

Our away form, in contrast, has been poor, but with a 2-2 draw in Leverkusen coming soon after that 4-1 win at Everton, we're showing glimpses of improvement on the road now Livramento and Hall are fit.