Pardew excited by derby clash

Newcastle United boss Alan Pardew admits he cannot wait for Sunday's derby trip to Sunderland to come around.

The 51-year-old was only denied three points on his first visit to the Stadium of Light by Asamoah Gyan's late equaliser two seasons ago, but tasted the glory of victory on enemy soil last time around when Ryan Taylor's free-kick won the day.

Pardew, who was involved in a touchline spat with opposite number Martin O'Neill when the sides last met at St James' Park in March, is understandably looking forward to renewing hostilities.

He told the Journal: "The derby games are electric games. I can't wait for it.

"The games over there have so much electricity. I can't really explain to people."