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‘I think…’ – Marco Gabbiadini names four Sunderland players who are good enough to play for Newcastle United
Sunderland Set for Premier League Showdown with Newcastle United Next Season
Sunderland’s return to the Premier League means the Tyne-Wear Derby is officially back on the calendar for the first time in nearly a decade, reigniting one of English football’s fiercest rivalries.
Former Sunderland striker Marco Gabbiadini recently shared his thoughts on how the current Black Cats squad compares to top-tier sides, including fierce rivals Newcastle United. During an appearance on BBC Radio Newcastle’s Total Sport, Gabbiadini was asked which Sunderland players he believes could hold their own in Eddie Howe’s Champions League-qualified Newcastle side.
Gabbiadini Names Sunderland Stars Who Could Fit in at Newcastle
Acknowledging the gap between the two clubs—Newcastle having secured Champions League football and Sunderland just earning promotion—Gabbiadini still identified several Sunderland players who could make an impression at St. James’ Park.
“It’s two different ends of the spectrum, isn’t it?” he said. “A team that’s just made the Champions League, and one just coming up from the Championship. But I do think there are a couple.”
- Jobe Bellingham: “He’d be of interest to most clubs in the league. He’s very solid, covers ground really well.”
- Dennis Cirkin: “A quality full-back, and he can chip in with goals.”
- Chris Mepham: “He might not start for Newcastle, but he’d definitely be a strong squad option. He’s been impressive this season.”
- Anthony Patterson: “He’s had an excellent year. He’s really stood out.”
On Jordan Henderson’s Potential Return to Sunderland
Gabbiadini also commented on ongoing speculation linking former Sunderland academy product Jordan Henderson with a return to the Stadium of Light.
“Look, he must be doing okay—he’s still in the England squad,” he said. “I haven’t watched much of him recently, but if he’s still being picked, clearly he’s showing enough.”
“A return would be a bit of a fairy tale, wouldn’t it? These things do happen sometimes. He’s been one of the best players in the country at times and has won top trophies. He’d definitely be an asset.”
However, Gabbiadini did express some doubt about whether a high-profile signing like Henderson fits Sunderland’s current approach.
“It might go against what the club is building right now—but maybe, with Premier League football, they’ll be willing to make some exceptions.”
