Sunderland's Fraizer Campbell is aiming to complete a hat-trick of personal goals by netting against Newcastle in the derby.
England international thriving after 18 months out with knee injury
Sunderland striker Fraizer Campbell is aiming to complete a hat-trick of personal goals by netting against Newcastle in the derby.
The 24-year-old became an England international on Wednesday when he stepped off the bench against Holland, minutes before his partner gave birth to their first child Isla Rose.
Sunday's clash with their local rivals would provide the former Manchester United starlet with an opportunity to round off an emotionally charged week in perfect fashion, if he manages to score.
Campbell was out for 18 months after suffering two cruciate knee ligament injuries and is now thriving back in competitive action.
Debut
"Everyone keeps telling me that these come along in threes, so hopefully that can be the third one," he said.
"I couldn't have written a better day. It was one of those crazy things - we never expected our baby to be born on the same day as my England debut.
"My girlfriend wasn't due until Monday and I'm gutted to have missed being at the birth of my first child.
"But at the same time, I'd have been gutted not to have got the chance to play for England."
Yet, Campbell is hopeful he will be able to compensate for missing the birth of his daughter by being a superb father.
"I've had 18 months of missing football through injury and I will always be there for my daughter," he added.
"I could get injured and never have another chance to play for England again."
