United head to the Stadium of Light (12:45pm kick-off) hoping to get one over on their local rivals and secure a place in the fourth round in the process in what will be the first meeting between the two sides since the 2015/16 season.

Howe's side are seeking to arrest their tricky recent run with a win on Wearside, which would be their first since Ryan Taylor's free kick sealed a memorable victory over the Black Cats in August 2011.

The Newcastle head coach - who is hoping full back Kieran Trippier will be available after missing the New Year's Day defeat at Liverpool - spoke to the media on Friday morning to preview the game against Michael Beale's men.

Here are some of the main talking points from his pre-match media briefing:

On the prospect of the 156th Tyne-Wear derby...

"I am expecting a good performance from us - we are ready. We know what this fixture means to everyone. We know the importance of this fixture. The players know what it means. For us, it is important that we get back to winning ways."

On the latest news regarding the Magpies squad's fitness and availability...

"We are going to give (Kieran Trippier) a late test today and see where he is tomorrow.

"Callum (Wilson) isn't too bad, but enough to keep him out of this game and our next game – but hopefully we can get him back for the game with Aston Villa."

On the need to secure a first win of 2024 and progress in the competition...

"Our next game is our next opportunity to turn our form around. We are very much focusing on our performance and trying to deliver the best account of ourselves as we can.

"It is our opportunity to progress in the cup competition. We have to individually be at our best levels."

On Sunderland, who currently sit sixth in the Championship table...

"Sunderland are a very good team, full of young and bright prospects. We do not underestimate the challenge - we have given them full respect in our preparation.

"But, of course, it is going to be about what we can do and how we can play and execute our plan."

On United's 6,000-strong travelling support...

"You want your away support to be there in numbers, and they have been this season. They have been incredible on the road for us.

"We want to repay that support with our best performance. I am very proud of our supporters - they've given us a lot."