Sunderland undoubtedly have had the upper hand

Sunderland undoubtedly have had the upper hand over arch rivals Newcastle United when it comes to the Tyne Wear derby in recent years.

Midfielder Jack Rodwell hopes that it is the case once again when the two teams meet each other at the Stadium of Light this weekend. Rodwell’s participation in the match is going to be highly doubtful, but after having completed 90 minutes of action against West Ham in the 1-0 defeat, he will be confident. Winger Adam Johnson has been a key part in this fixture over the last couple of years. He has scored in the last two Tyne Wear derbies.

Sunderland will be given a huge lift due to the presence of a new manager on the dugout. Dick Advocaat failed to lead his team to victory in his first match, but all that will be forgotten by the Sunderland faithful if the club manage yet another victory over Newcastle, who are having yet another comfortable end to the season. Newcastle caretaker manager John Carver will be aware that his team will be safe from relegation if we get another victory under their belt and he has eight matches to do so. Hence, it is quite possible that Newcastle will not be sharp for this encounter. Continue reading “Sunderland undoubtedly have had the upper hand”

Gus Poyet reveals disappointment on Jack

Sunderland boss Gus Poyet has revealed his disappointment surrounding midfielder Jack Rodwell, who offered the club a major hope after signing from Manchester City for £ 10 million in the summer.

Rodwell was expected to finally overcome his injury problems and excel in his midfield role due to regular game time. This has not been the case as the former Everton man has been suffering from niggling injury problems like the latest groin injury. This has led to a stop and start season and his form has suffered a result of it.Poyet has been hopeful of getting Rodwell back to 100% soon.

For the first time this season, Poyet expressed his dissatisfaction with the way Rodwell’s signing is turning out for the club. The 23-year-old midfielder has not featured for Sunderland since being sent off in the 0-0 draw against Fulham in the FA Cup a month ago. This is due to a combination of suspension and injury problems.Poyet has confirmed that the player is still 50-50 to feature this weekend. Sunderland have a mammoth clash against Manchester United at Old Trafford. Unlike in the last 12 months, the black cats will not have an easy ride against United who have rediscovered their form. Continue reading “Gus Poyet reveals disappointment on Jack”