Steven Fletcher has warned Newcastle United that Sunderland are full of confidence heading into Sunday's derby at St James' Park.

The Black Cats currently occupy 16th place in the Premier League table, while the resurgent Magpies sit in eighth spot thanks to six wins in their last nine games.

Despite Newcastle enjoying the better form, Fletcher believes that Sunderland are good enough to leave Tyneside with the points.

"There's a lot of confidence around the team at the moment, despite the draws," he told the Sunderland Echo.

"We're keeping the door shut at the back, which is great for the defenders. We know if we can get a few goals, then we'll pick up a win."

Sunderland's last victory in the Premier League was on November 3 against Crystal Palace.

Written by
Jack Prescott