Wear-Tyne derby the biggest rivalry match in Xhaka's career

Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka has described Sunday's Wear-Tyne derby as the biggest rivalry match he has faced in his career, despite previously playing in the North London derby and Champions League fixtures during spells with Arsenal and Bayer Leverkusen.

- by James Copley

Xhaka joined Sunderland from Bayer Leverkusen in July for an initial £13million fee, signing a three-year deal and later being named club captain by head coach Régis Le Bris.

The midfielder has since become a central figure in the squad and scored his first Sunderland goal in November during a 1-1 draw with Everton.

Speaking ahead of Sunday's meeting with Newcastle United, Xhaka said the magnitude of the occasion is clear inside the dressing room.

He said: "I had many rivals as well in my career, but I think this one will be the biggest.

"Let's try and give the fans and the club something big. We have one objective, and it's to win the game."