'We'll make clear just how much this game means'

EDDIE

- By LEE RYDER

Howe has assured Newcastle United fans that every single player will be fully aware of the meaning of Sunday’s clash at the Stadium of Light.The Magpies have new signings like Yoane Wissa, Nick Woltemade, Malick Thiaw, Jacob Ramsey, Aaron Ramsdale, and Anthony Elanga all in contention to face the Black Cats.

But even if they aren’t fully up to speed with the game, Howe is confident that the likes of Dan Burn and Lewis Miley, plus Newcastle fans Jacob Murphy and Lewis Hall, will convey the correct message.

Howe has revealed that talk of the derby did not begin in the camp until after the 2-2 draw with Bayer Leverkusen.

Howe said: “My first indication on the derby to the players was in Leverkusen after the game. We can’t take our focus off our next game.