Five things we learned before Newcastle vs Sunderland

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 01: Newcastle fans await the arrival of the travelling Sunderland fans, who will escorted into the stadium by police prior to kickoff during the Barclays Premier League match between Newcastle United and Sunderland at St James' Park on February 1, 2014 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images) /

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Fans backing their team is crucial for any side, but Newcastle United need them now more than ever.

That is exactly what Toon boss Rafa Benitez has pleaded from the Toon Army ahead of the massive game against Sunderland on Sunday.

The club’s official Twitter account reported that he said: “The fans are crucial for us. We have to stick together and be sure that every fan can help the players on the pitch.

Next: Newcastle are working hard behind the scenes