Jack Colback will settle for a derby victory however it comes as Sunderland attempt to break Newcastle's stranglehold on the fixture.
The Black Cats have beaten their arch-rivals in the league on Wearside only once since 1980, and have just one win either home and away against the Magpies in 15 attempts.
"Certainly from what I can remember growing up, it's always seemed to be that way, that Sunderland have played well and just not got the rub of the green. The games have always been tight," the 22-year-old said.
"But it is certainly something we will be looking to change. We would rather have a shocker of a game performance-wise and win the game than play well and lose, for sure."
As ever in a derby, many fans of either side would be happy enough with a point which means they can go to work on Monday morning and give as good as they get, knowing defeat would leave them in the firing line until at least the return on Tyneside in April.
But that is not a feeling which will be shared in the home dressing room this weekend.
Colback said: "No, definitely not. For us, it's a home game and it's a home game we will be looking to win.
"Fans will be saying they would take a draw because that's how intense it is and the thought of defeat to them, they don't want to see it happen.
"By saying they would take a draw, it's probably meaning they really don't want to lose."
Newcastle will arrive on Wearside two points better off than their neighbours, but having played a game more, although neither side has really hit top form yet this season.
Source: PA
