east clash with Newcastle is extra important due to
their poor start.
John O'Shea believes Sunderland's poor start to the Premier
League season means the result of Sunday's Wear-Tyne derby
is even more significant.
Sunderland, winless after nine games and sitting at the foot of
the table, take on Newcastle - also in the relegation zone – at
the Stadium of Light.
Sam Allardyce's men have dominated recent meetings between
the fierce rivals, having won each of their past five games and
remaining unbeaten since 2011.
O'Shea, who joined the north-east club from Manchester United,
says the whole team are relishing the upcoming test.
"It is a massive game and as players we always look forward to
playing our local rivals," said the Republic of Ireland
international.
"We've had some positives results against them in recent times
and of course we're looking for that to continue, but more
importantly we have to register that first league win of the
season and start climbing the table as quickly as possible.
"We would be looking to do that whoever we were facing this
weekend, but when you've had the start to the season we have
it's important to start picking up points."
Dick Advocaat, Sunderland's hero last season, has been
replaced by Allardyce but O'Shea says it is up to the players to
handle the pressure the derby brings.
"No matter who we face we're confident especially at home and
because it is against Newcastle on the TV there is obviously a
bigger build-up, but as I said we're looking forward to the game
and hopefully we can respond to the test," he said.
"The atmosphere and the intensity of the derby is huge but on
the day you have to rise to it and perform, whilst also making
sure everyone has cool heads and takes advantage of that
intensity to win the game."
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