There isn't long to go now as Newcastle United and Sunderland prepare to face off on Saturday (kick-off 12:45pm) for the first time in almost eight years.
The two clubs last met in March 2016 in what was a 1-1 draw at St James' Park. Jermaine Defoe opened the scoring before a late goal from Aleksandar Mitrovic rescued a point for United.
The Magpies were relegated from the Premier League at the end of that season but swapped places with Sunderland a year later. The Black Cats then dropped into League One and spent four years there before returning to the Championship in 2022.
In that time, Newcastle have changed owners and qualified for the Champions League under Eddie Howe, however head to Wearside having lost seven of their last eight matches in all competitions.
Meanwhile, Sunderland sit sixth in the second-tier table with new boss Michael Beale winning two, drawing one and losing one of his opening games in charge.
Here, NewcastleWorld takes a look at the early team news from both camps:
1. Sandro Tonali - out
The Italian is suspended from football until August 2024 following an investigation into illegal betting activity.
2. Javier Manquillo - out
Manquillo is yet to make an appearance this season because of a groin issue.
3. Nick Pope - out
Pope underwent surgery on a dislocated shoulder earlier this month and won’t return until April at the earliest.
4. Matt Targett - out
Targett is recovering from hamstring surgery.