Alexander Isak shares what Newcastle players have been telling him after Sunderland FA Cup draw

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Alexander Isak has revealed what Newcastle United players have been saying about drawing Sunderland in the FA Cup third round next month.

This will be the first Tyne-Wear derby in almost eight years and the local lads have been keen to remind the rest of the squad just how important it is to get the victory.

Isak spoke to beIN SPORTS and revealed how some of the local players had been making sure that everyone understood just how big this is for the supporters and for the city.

Isak is prepared for a ‘big day’ against Sunderland

Not much has to be said for how important this game will be for both sets of fans, though a lot of the players may just need a bit of a reminder as it’s been so long since the last clash.

Players like Sean Longstaff, Dan Burn and Jacob Murphy, all boyhood Newcastle fans, will be very keen to play their part in this historic fixture and make sure the other players on their top form.

As Isak mentions in the interview, there are derbies all over the world and the Swede has been involved in quite a few already, but it’s still important that they understand 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

It’s no secret that Newcastle are a top team, one of the best in the country, and a lot has happened to both clubs since their last meeting.

With Sunderland competing in the Championship and Newcastle competing in the Champions League there is definitely a gap in quality, so Isak and his teammates will have to be prepared for a more physical battle than usual.

Typically Newcastle tend to fair better against the teams who are more open in their style of play than when facing a low block, but it remains to be seen how Sunderland will set up against their biggest rivals.

It’s yet another huge draw in what has been an incredible season for Newcastle in cup competitions. No one can suggest that the Magpies have taken the easy route if they end up progressing far in any tournament.