St James’ Park prepares for its first Premier League Tyne-Wear derby in a decade. While the history books favor the visitors, the current reality suggests a divide in quality in their respective roles as home and away side.

Newcastle United are desperate to wash away the bitter taste of a 7-2 midweek drubbing in Barcelona, and there is no better palate cleanser than a clinical victory over their rivals.

Eddie Howe’s men have been formidable at home in the league, recently dispatching Manchester United and Chelsea. While their European exit was chaotic, their domestic approach has become more disciplined. They face a Sunderland side that has reached the safety of 40 points but have struggles for wins on the road.

Régis Le Bris has transformed the Black Cats into a tough nut to crack at home, but they have been travel-sick all season, winning just twice in 15 away fixtures. Expect a professional, controlled performance from the Magpies as they look to end Sunderland’s 10-match unbeaten streak in EPL meetings.

What are the best picks for Newcastle vs Sunderland?

Back Newcastle to win and Under 2.5 Goals

Forget the seven goals Newcastle conceded in Spain; that was an anomaly against world-class opposition. It’s safe to assume this will be a typically tight Tyne-Wear derby, and Howe will want a good showing when it comes to the defensive basics.

Sunderland’s away strategy relies on a low block that often holds out for long periods but lacks the counter-attacking teeth to punish the majority of sides. Newcastle should control the ball and eventually break through, but we don’t expect them to blow Sunderland away.

Anthony Gordon to score anytime

With Bruno Guimarães sidelined, the creative and clinical burden falls squarely on Anthony Gordon. He has been Newcastle’s most consistent big-game player this season.

Against a Sunderland defense that has the highest xGA (expected goals against) in the league on the road, Gordon’s ability to cut inside from the left will be the deciding factor.

Where can I watch Newcastle vs Sunderland?

USA fans can stream the action live on USA Network or Peacock at 7:00 a.m. ET.

UK viewers can watch the derby live on Sky Sports Main Event. The game is set for a 12:00 p.m. kick-off.

What is Newcastle’s current form?

L-W-W-L-D

What is Sunderland’s current form?

L-L-W-D-L

What is Newcastle’s predicted team?

Ramsdale; Trippier, Botman, Burn, Hall; Ramsey, Joelinton, Woltemade; Elanga, Gordon, Barnes

What is Sunderland’s predicted team?

Ellborg; Geertruida, O’Nien, Alderete, Hume; Xhaka, Sadiki, Diarra; Rigg, Talbi, Brobbey

Where were the results of the last five head-to-head meetings between Newcastle and Sunderland?

Dec 14, 2025: Sunderland 1-0 Newcastle (EPL)

Jan 6, 2024: Sunderland 0-3 Newcastle (FA Cup)

Mar 20, 2016: Newcastle 1-1 Sunderland (EPL)

Oct 25, 2015: Sunderland 3-0 Newcastle (EPL)

Apr 5, 2015: Sunderland 1-0 Newcastle (EPL)