This Saturday’s FA Cup match between Sunderland and Newcastle United will be the teams’ first official meeting since 2016, when both teams were members of the Premier League.

After regaining their Premier League status, the Magpies were demoted to the

Championship and are currently playing in the Champions League.

After slipping to League One, Sunderland eventually recovered to return to the Championship, putting a full division

between the two bitter rivals in the North East.

But now, let’s look at Michael Beale’s best starting lineup and reserves for

Sunderland vs. Newcastle United in the FA Cup:

GK: Anthony Patterson

The local lad is a shoo-in for Sunderland in the goalkeeping position and has been the club’s first choice since midway through the Black Cats’ final season in League One.

LB: Aji Alese

The defender’s return to fitness is a timely boost for Sunderland head coach Michael Beale.

RB: Trai Hume

Trai Hume will more than likely start at right-back but could also be deployed on the left flank of Beale’s defence.

CB: Dan Ballard

The former Arsenal man is one of the first names on Michael Beale’s teamsheet.

CB: Luke O’Nien

Luke O’Nien has been a regular for Sunderland at centre-back this season

and has been captaining the side in the absence of Corry Evans.

CM: Pierre Ekwah

The Frenchman’s form has been hit-and-miss since his return from injury but

does bring a lot to Sunderland’s midfield when firing on all cylinders.

CM: Dan Neil

A Sunderland fan as a boy, Dan Neil will be relishing the opportunity to play in a

Wear-Tyne derby against Newcastle United.

LW: Jack Clarke

The game against Newcastle United will provide Jack Clarke with a huge opportunity to prove just how good he really is.

RW: Alex Pritchard

Alex Pritchard’s experience and quality in this game against Newcastle United could prove to be crucial on the day.

CAM: Jobe

Sunderland may need the ball to stick up front at some point against Newcastle United and Jobe could provide the perfect outlet. Photo

ST: Nazairy Rusyn

The Ukranian joined Sunderland during last summer’s transfer window and netted his first goal against Preston North End last weekend.

Sub: Nathan Bishop

The former Manchester United goalkeeper has been Sunderland’s number two this season.

Sub: Timothee Pembele

The former PSG man is making his way back from injury.

Sub: Jenson Seelt

The Dutchman has put in some decent performances for Sunderland so far this season since joining from PSV last season.

Sub: Dennis Cirkin

The defender is due back from injury and may yet be fit enough to take a spot on the bench.

Sub: Adil Aouchiche

The French attacking midfielder has bundles of talent but has yet to nail down a starting spot in Sunderland’s starting XI this season.

Sub: Chris Rigg

What a story it would be if Chris Rigg came off the bench to have an impact against Newcastle United.

Sub: Nectar Triantis

The Australian centre-back joined Sunderland during last summer’s transfer window.

Sub: Abdoullah Ba

The Frenchman has struggled to make an impact at Sunderland so far this campaign.

Sub: Eliezer Mayenda

The Spanish striker could provide an interesting option from the bench for Michael Beale.