Friday 23 October 2015 11:49, UK
Steve McClaren described Sunday's Wear-Tyne derby as "just another game" as Newcastle attempt to end a run of five straight defeats to Sunderland.
McClaren insists he will prepare for the trip to the Stadium of Light as he would for any other match, with neither himself nor many of his Newcastle players involved when the sides last met in April when Sunderland won 1-0 at St James' Park.
Both teams have struggled for form this season, although the Magpies warmed up for the live Super Sunday showdown with a 6-2 drubbing of Norwich last weekend.
"It's just another game. We don't know anything about the five previous ones and half of the team probably won't either," said McClaren.
"It's a new game, a great opportunity and why should we approach this game any differently than we would Chelsea, Manchester United, Manchester City, Norwich or Watford?
"We have to approach every game the same. This game is massive for the fans and I know there is a determination in this club to get that win for the fans.
"I don't think there are any favourites in this game. Anyone can look at past records and say, 'Sunderland will be the favourites', or say, 'You got your first win, so you are the favourites'.
"It's a derby game, form goes out of the window. It's a one-off game. You can't control the result, just how you play, how you perform and we really have to perform well on Sunday to get a result."
McClaren has e-mailed Newcastle fans ahead of the derby to reassure them his staff and players recognise the importance of the derby to the club's supporters.
When asked how the Magpies would approach the contest, McClaren added: "By giving a performance and making sure we have that determination, like we should have every week, to win the game.
"Every game is tough in the Premier League. Sunday is going to be no tougher than any other game and we just know it is going to be very important for the club and for the fans."
