The Wear–Tyne derby is now only a few days away, and the mood around both clubs is beginning to shift as fresh news emerges ahead of Sunday’s showdown. Sunderland have quietly been handed a boost after learning that Newcastle United have picked up yet another injury at the worst possible time.
With the rivalry already set to be intense, this latest development has added even more intrigue to a fixture that both sets of supporters have been looking forward to for weeks.
Newcastle were back in action on Wednesday night in a dramatic Champions League match against Bayer Leverkusen that ended in a 2–2 draw. It was a match where the Magpies desperately needed a statement win, and for a large part of the second half, it looked like they might actually get it.
However, their habit of conceding late goals resurfaced, and another equaliser in the dying minutes cost them the confidence-boosting victory they were chasing.
After the game, Eddie Howe confirmed that midfielder Joelinton had been forced off with what appeared to be a groin problem. The Brazilian, who has been an important figure for Newcastle in big matches, was replaced in the second half by teenager Lewis Miley.
The change raised eyebrows at the time, and Howe later explained that the midfielder may now be a doubt for the derby. The manager admitted, “It looks like a groin injury. I don’t know how serious it is at this moment in time.”
This setback comes at a moment when Newcastle are already battling several other absences. Their defence has been hit hard, with Kieran Trippier, Sven Botman, and Emil Krafth all sidelined.
Goalkeeper Nick Pope also remains out, leaving the team without four key players as they head to the Stadium of Light for one of the biggest matches of their season.
The injuries have forced Howe into tough decisions, but he refused to rotate heavily in Germany despite the looming derby. Almost the entire starting XI played the full game, with only two substitutions made Miley for Joelinton and Jacob Murphy replacing Harvey Barnes.
Sunderland have their own problems to deal with, but the news isn’t quite as bleak. Luke O’Nien is suspended following his red card against Manchester City, and a few players remain doubts, yet they have also received a small piece of positive news.
Reports this week suggest that Habib Diarra might make a surprise return sooner than expected. Although nothing is confirmed, even the possibility of his involvement will excite the home fans who want every edge they can get in such an emotionally charged encounter.
The table says there is very little between the two sides, with just one point separating them in the Premier League standings. Sunderland have started the campaign with energy and belief, showing determination in matches against strong opponents like Bournemouth and Liverpool.
Their fighting spirit has impressed many, and they will feel they have a real chance at taking something from the clash, especially with Newcastle dealing with injuries and inconsistency.
Newcastle, on the other hand, have been difficult to predict. They have lost only once in their last six matches in all competitions the defeat to Marseille but their progress keeps being undermined by late lapses in concentration.
This pattern has frustrated Howe, the players, and the supporters who feel they should be securing far more points than they currently are.
When questioned by the Chronicle about whether his promising team is in danger of damaging their own progress with these defensive slip-ups, Howe was honest.
He admitted, “I can’t disagree. I think we have work to do. But I think we have work to do in every part of the game. I think we are a team that is building in the right direction.”
He reminded reporters that Newcastle had a rough summer, and it showed during their early season performances. However, he believes the last six matches have displayed a noticeable improvement.
Despite that, he knows his team still has moments where they make life hard for themselves. “There are still moments where we shoot ourselves in the foot,” he said. “I know it is a frustration. Not just for me, for the players and for everybody. We are costing ourselves at the moment.”
As for their Champions League hopes, Howe took a measured stance. He stressed that the draw keeps their qualification chances alive and still in their own hands, but he admitted the remaining fixtures will be tough. For now, his focus shifts back to the Premier League and the derby that has the whole region buzzing.
Both clubs head into Sunday with something to prove. Sunderland have the opportunity to take advantage of Newcastle’s injuries and continue their strong start.
Newcastle, meanwhile, hope to overcome adversity and remind their rivals of the gap they have worked hard to build in recent seasons. With tension rising, injuries mounting, and fans on edge, the stage is set for another unforgettable Wear–Tyne derby.
