Longelo relishing Tyne-Wear derby test

United's second-string host their local rivals in Premier League 2 at United's Little Benton Academy, aiming for a fifth successive win against their Black Cats counterparts.

Longelo has fond memories of facing Sunderland, netting a 90th minute winner in a 3-2 win on Wearside two seasons ago and the winger, who also provided two assists in last season's 2-0 triumph at St. James' Park, believes the Division Two clash is one the squad are hoping to prevail in.

"It's always exciting to play in a derby game," the 20-year-old told nufc.co.uk. "Everyone will be looking forward to it because of the previous matches. 

"Every game will be important for us this season but these are the ones which rank near the top. It's such a big game, a local derby, and you always want to beat your rivals.

"For the local lads, it's a bit more motivating to try and come out on top but I think they have installed the mentality into those who are not from Newcastle. Everyone in the team has that same mentality now and I think with that, the team can go far.

"I enjoy playing against Sunderland because it's a big game. I love playing in those kind of games.

"It's going to be the first time, since I've been here, where we haven't play in front of the fans at St. James' Park. We're definitely going to miss them because they certainly push us on and give us a lot more energy. 

"That will be different but we still have to get the job done.

"We struggled to get going last season so during pre-season, everyone was working hard to get ready before the start of theis season. We already knew what we did wrong last time and if we want to achieve the things what we want (this year), we cannot put a foot wrong."

The young Magpies suffered a 1-0 defeat against Crewe Alexandra in their EFL trophy group game last week as their hopes of qualification to the knockout stages took a difficult blow.

Longelo, however, believes there is no better time for United's youngsters to bounce back than against their North east neighbours, who are yet to register a point in Division Two.

The DR Congo-born forward said: "It was a tough result to take against Crewe. I thought we deserved something out of that game. The boys were amazing and we played very well, creating a lot of chances but we were just unlucky in the end.

"We were disappointed but as soon as the team talk finished, we knew Sunderland was the next game and we know it's the perfect opportunity to put it right. Hopefully, we can do that.

"Regardless of their position in the table, I think Sunderland always play their hardest against us because they don't want to lose.

"That motivates us because we know for a fact we don't want to end up losing in a derby. We'll be looking to play our best football and come out with a win."