Sunderland fans will be delighted with Regis Le Bris as announcement drops ahead of Newcastle clash
Regis Le Bris has named his Sunderland starting XI ahead of their highly anticipated clash with arch-rivals Newcastle United.
Eddie Howe’s side have made the short trip to the Stadium of Light for what is all set up to be a fascinating Wear-Tyne derby on Sunday afternoon.
It’s the first time Sunderland have faced Newcastle in the league since 2016, with the Magpies coming into the game as favourites.
The Black Cats are one point ahead of their arch rivals in the Premier League though, and will be confident that they can make home advantage count to secure a famous derby day win.
After receiving some positive team news ahead of the game, Sunderland fans will now be even more excited for kick off.
Brian Brobbey comes back into Sunderland starting XI
Brian Brobbey was relegated to the bench for Sunderland’s 3-0 defeat to Manchester City last Saturday, with Wilson Isidor replacing the Dutchman up front.
However, Brobbey has returned to the starting XI for Sunday’s Wear-Tyne derby, and will play through the middle for Regis Le Bris’ side.
Sunderland fans will also be delighted that Reinildo has returned from injury, with the Brazilian coming in for Trai Hume at left back.
Le Bris has made the switch to a back four, with Lutsharel Geertruida dropping to the bench and Chemsdine Talbi regaining his place in the starting lineup.
Sunderland have history on their side vs Newcastle
Sunderland were beaten 3-0 by Newcastle when the two sides last met, in the third round of the FA Cup back in January 2024.
However, bar that disappointing result almost two years ago, the Mackems have had a superb recent record in the Wear-Tyne derby.
In the last nine Premier League games between the two rivals, Sunderland are unbeaten, with six wins and three draws against the Magpies.
You have to go back to 2011 for Newcastle’s last victory over the Black Cats, at a time when Steve Bruce was still in charge at the Stadium of Light.
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