Sunderland have beaten Tyne-Wear derby rivals Newcastle United the past four times the two clubs have met.

The Black Cats edged the Magpies at St James' Park 1-0 on December 21 which came after a winning double in the 2013/14 season and a punishing 3-0 win on Tyneside in April 2013.

Sunderland have not lost to the Geordies since August 2011 meaning they have a six-game unbeaten run going over their regional rivals and captain John O'Shea is eager to continue that recent domination when they meet at the Stadium of Light in Mackem country on Sunday.

"Look, it's one of those things, we have a chance of creating a fantastic record against a big rival, the main rival for us, so it's a fantastic opportunity," he told the club's official website.

"But ultimately, it comes down to wanting it more on the day and hopefully, that will be the case."