Mike Williamson plays down Tyne-Wear derby form

Newcastle United defender Mike Williamson has insisted that their recent performances in the Tyne-Wear derby will not affect preparations for Sunday's meeting with Sunderland on Sunday.

Despite losing the last four matches against the Black Cats, Williamson is confident that Newcastle can put the disappointing results behind them as they look to pile the pressure on their relegation-threatened rivals, who currently sit just one point above the bottom three.

"You can look at history books or the form guide at the minute but I don't think it really matters - nothing really contributes apart from, on the day, who turns up, keeps their cool and capitalises on any small margins," the Magpies centre-back told the club's website.

"I think you can rip the form book up when it comes to that game.

"It's a great spectacle and I thoroughly enjoy playing in them; the atmosphere, the pressure and the intensity of it has always been brilliant. It's something to relish and hopefully we can get a positive result. It's all about keeping your composure and making sure you can play under that pressure."

Newcastle head into the game on a three-match losing run in the Premier League.