Black Cats relishing derby clash but rest must come first - Sadiki

Noah Sadiki says the Sunderland squad are fully aware of the importance of Sunday's Wear-Tyne derby against Newcastle United.

- by Phil Smith

The Black Cats face Eddie Howe's side at the Stadium of Light on Sunday and Sadiki says it is a challenge that the squad are relishing. The youngster also pointed out that an initial phase of recovery would be key for Sunderland after a demanding week in which they played Liverpool and Manchester City away in back-to-back fixtures.

"It is still a bit difficult to talk about it [the derby] straight after the game," Sadiki said.

"We need to take our rest first, then a few days before the game, we can really focus on it and prepare for what is coming. We will be thinking about it during the week.