Paul Merson does something he hates as he predicts Sunderland vs Newcastle United

Paul Merson does something he hates as he predicts Sunderland vs Newcastle United

Paul Merson has shared his prediction for Sunday’s Premier League clash between Sunderland and Newcastle United.

The first Tyne-Wear derby in the Premier League since March 2016 is fast approaching, with Eddie Howe’s Newcastle side preparing for a trip to the Stadium of Light.

Sunderland head into the fixture above the Magpies in the league table and full of momentum after an impressive start to life back in the top flight.

Newcastle, however, will also feel optimistic thanks to the quality within their squad and the recent form of Anthony Gordon.

Their confidence would have been even higher had they held on for a Champions League victory against Bayer Leverkusen on Wednesday, but an 88th-minute equaliser forced them to settle for a draw.

With focus now shifting to Sunday’s showdown, Merson has labelled it the “big derby.”

Merson predicts a draw in the Tyne-Wear derby

Neutrals across the country are eagerly anticipating the fixture, and Merson is among those excited. Speaking to Sportskeeda, the former Arsenal and England forward gave his prediction.

“What a game,” Merson said. “The big derby is back in the Premier League! Sunderland have been unbelievable since returning to the top flight. Their performances don’t stop surprising us.

“Newcastle score plenty of goals, but they struggle defensively. Their last clean sheet came seven games ago in the Champions League against Athletic Club.

“Player for player, Newcastle should win. But derby games are never decided on paper. The Stadium of Light will be electric, and Sunderland will fight for everything.

“I hate doing this, but I’m going to sit on the fence. I’m going for a draw.”

Merson’s prediction: Sunderland 1–1 Newcastle United.

Newcastle’s Premier League record vs Sunderland

Newcastle’s most recent derby win came in January 2024, but that was in the FA Cup. At the time, Howe’s side were overwhelming favourites against a struggling Championship Sunderland, and they delivered as expected.

In the Premier League, however, their record is far less encouraging. Newcastle have failed to beat Sunderland in their last nine league meetings.

Their most recent Premier League victory over their rivals was back in August 2011 at the Stadium of Light, when Ryan Taylor’s free-kick secured a memorable win.

As Sunday approaches, Newcastle will be hoping someone in the current squad can replicate Taylor’s heroics and write their own name into Tyne-Wear derby folklore.