Newcastle United striker Callum Wilson believes there is one issue ahead of the Magpies’ upcoming FA Cup clash with Sunderland.
The Magpies have been shockingly drawn against arch rivals Sunderland in the FA Cup third round, with the two sides meeting in the competition for the first time since 1956.
It will also be the first Tyne-Wear derby since 2016, back when Rafa Benitez was calling the shots at St James’ Park.
It is an absolutely huge game for both sides and an incredible draw – in a season where every cup draw has been incredible for Newcastle. They’ve had the group of death in the Champions League, then an obscenely challenging Carabao Cup run.
Now it is Sunderland in the FA Cup, and Callum Wilson has given his verdict on possibly playing against the Black Cats in January.
Callum Wilson wishes Newcastle were playing Sunderland at St James’ Park
Wilson has appeared on the latest episode of the Footballer’s Football Podcast, and discussed Newcastle being drawn against Sunderland in the FA Cup.
“Offt, that’s all I’m going to say!,” he said.
“It is exciting. I joined Newcastle and back in the day I had watched the Tyne-Wear derby and you see Defoe score in a 1-1 draw I think it was, and that might have been the last time that they played.
“You just think it means so much to the Magpies to beat Sunderland that I would love to be involved in that game, as a striker you do have a final say.
“Just to experience the atmosphere and the tension and to score a goal in there, the roar would be different.
“It would be better if it was at St James’ Park but being down there and us having less fans and to experience the hostile-ness from them. It just gives you goosebumps. We will turn up and give them a good game and they will be licking their lips trying to give us an upset.”
Being away is the only disappointing aspect of the FA Cup draw
Facing Sunderland in the FA Cup is a tantalising yet terrifying prospect. Derbies are horrible games, and our recent record in the fixture leaves a lot to be desired.
But Eddie Howe’s side will be confident. The club is very different nowadays, and Newcastle have become a team that always rises to the occasion.
However, as Wilson says, it is a shame that the game will be at the Stadium Of Light rather than St James’ Park. It means there will only be a few thousand Toon fans in attendance, with the Mackems having home advantage.
Regardless, it is going to be a momentous occasion, and one that Wilson is relishing. He is injured right now, but it sounds like the number nine is very keen to be fit and available for the game on Wearside at the beginning of 2024.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
