After last week's cup game, it's back to normal in the Premiership this week. Newcastle make the short visit to Sunderland on Sunday. Can we compare this game to the local derby's of the London clubs?

Completely. It's a real derby, and a game which we must not lose. The fans await this game with some impatience, and for that we really have to win it. That will give us that extra bit of motivation on Sunday.

What's the atmosphere like in this type of game?

It's very, very hot. especially away from home, but they aren't doing so well in the league. I think it's going to be a tough game.

Kevin Phillips is Sunderlands big name striker, with Patrick Mboma having just arrived. What do you make of their team? 

They aren't bad, for us we'll play the team facing us and go for the win. We're still in the running for the title and we if we don't want to distance ourselves from that, we have to at least get a point out of the game. I know it's going to be difficult but we have no room for errors. We have to collect as many points as we can. 

How did the training go today?

The coach has got the team organised. Tomorrow we will have a last training session, then straight away, he'll confirm the squad he's chosen. There won't be any surprises, we'll be the same as we usually are.

And how are you feeling?

My three day break in France has been nice. I've was totally relaxed. I was with my wife and kids at Eurodisney, and we had a very nice time. I had a go on one of the new rides. It's not yet open to the public but I got a special pass - I tell you, It's a killer. There's a ride there a bit like Space Mountain, but ten times better. It'll put you in a coffin! Talk to you next week.


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