Talking Tactics: Newcastle (A) — “Tyne And Wear Triumph!”

After ten long years, Sunderland travelled to St James’ Park for the first time since 2015/16 — which saw the game end honours even. Despite a clear tactical plan to exploit Newcastle’s intense press, news of a Sunderland injury crisis had home fans brimming with confidence — yet despite an early setback, the Lads were able to fight back and claim yet another maximum points haul from a losing position and keep our historic derby streak alive. With a fresh set of injury worry and late fitness calls ahead of the game, how did Régis Le Bris pull off a tactical masterclass with a depleted squad and totally outclass the hosts in the process?

Sunderland lineup With the news before kick-off that none of Sunderland’s injured players were fit enough to make the starting eleven, Le Bris was left with a makeshift defence as four of his preferred starting back five were missing. It was deemed to be a little too soon for Robin Roefs, therefore Melker Ellborg retained his place in goal. Dan Ballard’s hamstring strain kept him out entirely whilst both Nordi Mukiele and Reinildo were only fit enough to make the bench.

Trai Hume kept his place on his opposite flank, whilst Luke O’Nien came in to partner Omar Alderete and Lutsharel Geertruida making up the back four for Sunderland. Our midfield trio remained the same, with Habib Diarra and Noah Sadiki playing just ahead of Granit Xhaka. In the forward line, and with injuries to four of five Sunderland wingers, Chemsdine Talbi was the only wide player fit to start and Chris Rigg was shuffled out wide to compensate, with Brian Brobbey leading the line after his own return from injury last week.

Playing in their usual 4-3-3, Le Bris knew he was going to need to look for gaps in behind the ultra-aggressive Newcastle press, therefore ensuring he could trust each of his players to fulfil their roles in this system was key to selection. Whilst neither Rigg nor Hume were playing in their natural roles, Le Bris had full trust in both players to be able to execute his tactical instructions under immense pressure. Opposition lineup Following a gruelling game at the Camp Nou in midweek, Eddie Howe opted to make two changes following his side’s embarrassing exit in the Champions League, as Malick Thiaw made way for Sven Botman and Sunderland’s previous derby day hero Nick Woltemade came into midfield to replace the injured Sandro Tonali.