Jermain Defoe excited for derby clash with Newcastle United next week

Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe has said that he hopes recent success against Newcastle United can inspire his side to victory in next week's Tyne-Wear derby.

The Black Cats have won their previous four games against the Magpies, and Defoe believes that home support will be crucial to the outcome.

He told reporters: "It's four victories in a row for us and hopefully that will continue. It's a game we can win. The lads have been unbelievable in the last few matches against Newcastle.

"The boys have told me there's nothing quite like this game. It's a fixture for the fans and it's a massive game for everyone involved with the football club. It's going to be a difficult one of course, but with us being at home we will have the fans right behind us."

Adam Johnson scored a last-minute winner for Sunderland away at Newcastle in December.