Rose ready for Newcastle battle

Sunderland defender Danny Rose is eyeing a victory over local rivals Newcastle United to boost their hopes of avoiding relegation.

The 22-year-old is currently on a season-long loan spell from Tottenham, and is keen for the Black Cats to overcome a difficult atmosphere when they travel to face the Magpies on Sunday.

“I’m looking forward to the game and every match we’re in now is a cup final,” he told the club’s official website.

“I’ve heard from the staff and the lads that it’s a hostile atmosphere and I’m looking forward to it. It’s going to be a great match so hopefully we can come out on top.”

The match will be the second since Paolo Di Canio took over, following their 2-1 loss away to Chelsea, and Rose is hoping to come out on top in the vital clash.

“Every game’s a six-pointer, definitely,” he added.

“We shouldn’t be in this position but we have to try and forget about that and do our best over the next six games.”