Alan Shearer has picked who will finish higher now between Newcastle and Sunderland

Alan Shearer has picked who will finish higher now between Newcastle and Sunderland

Newcastle United currently sit below Sunderland in the Premier League standings, though Eddie Howe will be hoping that doesn’t remain the case for long.

The Magpies find themselves 14th in the table, with their inconsistent domestic form becoming a growing concern. However, Howe is beginning to make adjustments as he looks to address the team’s issues following the international break.

Although Eddie Howe is under no real pressure at the moment, Sunderland’s remarkable start to life back in the Premier League has added extra attention to the situation.

The Black Cats have collected 19 points from their first 11 matches—an impressive tally for a side many expected to battle relegation. They are currently fourth, sitting seven points ahead of Newcastle.

Yet, Toon legend Alan Shearer believes the two clubs will change positions before the 2025/26 season is over.

Alan Shearer backs Newcastle to overhaul Sunderland

Speaking on the latest episode of The Rest Is Football podcast, Shearer was asked by Gary Lineker which North East club he expects to finish higher.

“Newcastle will,” Shearer responded confidently.

He praised Sunderland’s strong start but expressed doubt about their ability to maintain that level—especially with several key players likely to be unavailable in January.

“I’d be amazed if they kept it up, particularly with the players that they’re going to lose in January for I don’t know how long,” he added. “But I still hope and still think Newcastle will finish above them.”

Shearer was referring to the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations. While Newcastle may lose Yoane Wissa to DR Congo, Sunderland are expected to be without as many as seven players. AFCON kicks off on December 21 and runs until January 18.

Chance to close the gap before the Tyne-Wear derby

Newcastle will soon have a direct opportunity to cut the gap between themselves and their rivals, with the first Tyne-Wear derby of the season fast approaching.

The two teams face off at the Stadium of Light on December 14—their first league meeting since March 2016. As things stand, Sunderland will remain above the Magpies when the fixture arrives, but the picture could shift depending on results.

Seven points separate the two sides, and four rounds of Premier League matches are scheduled before the derby.

That gives Howe’s team a realistic chance to leapfrog Sunderland—provided Newcastle can improve their form and the Black Cats hit a rough patch.