Jermaine Defoe says he was “like a little kid” ahead of his first Wear-Tyne derby, as he looked back on his wonder goal with the Sunderland Echo.
Defoe, who’s volley before half-time was the winning goal, claimed that the atmosphere in the Wear-Tyne derby was nothing like what he had experienced in London.
“I’d played in a North London derby, and I’d always enjoyed them. But it’s just crazy up here.”
“I remember driving to the stadium and then you get that fire in your belly and you know you have to play well. You get that something extra.”
The 33-year-old volleyed in one of the greatest derby goals ever seen just before half-time with his left foot, something he claims he will never forget.
“To win it was special, but to score was something I’ll never forget.”
“To score a goal like that with my left foot… maybe those things are just meant to happen.”
The ex-England international has had a limited role so far this season, being restricted to a place on the bench in the last four matches. He is desperate to be a part of things on Sunday.
“It would be hard to watch it from the bench. I want to play in the big games.”
The Black Cats are gunning for an unprecedented six consecutive derby wins, but it won’t be easy. The Magpies are on a high following their 6-2 win over Norwich, with Sam Allardyce hoping history repeats itself once again to allow a new manager to win his first home game – the derby – following an away defeat.
