Alexander Isak has revealed what Newcastle United players have been saying regarding their FA Cup third round draw against Sunderland next month.
This will be the first Tyne-Wear derby in nearly eight years, and the locals have been eager to remind the rest of the squad how vital a win is.
Isak spoke to beIN SPORTS about how some of the local players had been making sure everyone recognized how important this is for the fans and the community.
Isak is prepared for a ‘big day’ against Sunderland
There isn’t much to say about how significant this game will be for both sets of supporters, while many of the players may just need a refresher after such a long time apart.
Players like Sean Longstaff, Dan Burn, and Jacob Murphy, who are all lifelong Newcastle fans, will be eager to contribute to this historic match and keep the other players on top form.
There are derbies all around the world, as Isak explains in the interview, and the Swede has been part in quite a number, but it’s still crucial that people realize why Newcastle vs Sunderland is so special to the region.
Speaking to beIN SPORTS, Isak said: “Yeah it’s a big game and obviously we understand but some of the local lads have told us how much it means for the fans, for the city. It’s going to be a big day but we just have to be focused and prepared when that day comes.”
“I think we’ve all been in terms where there’s a derby. I have in every club I’ve been so I know how important it is for the fans. But it’s always nice to hear different views on it.”
Newcastle have to be ready for a battle against Sunderland
Newcastle are a top team, arguably the finest in the country, and a lot has changed for both clubs since their last meeting.
With Sunderland in the Championship and Newcastle in the Champions League, there is a clear difference in quality, so Isak and his colleagues should expect a more physical confrontation than usual.
Typically, Newcastle performs better against teams that play more openly than when faced with a low block, but it remains to be seen how Sunderland will set up against their fiercest rivals.
It’s yet another enormous draw in what has been an unbelievable cup season for Newcastle. Nobody can argue that the Magpies took the easy way out if they go far in any event.
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