Sunderland boss Dick Advocaat is delighted with their training ground form going into the derby against Newcastle United.

Advocaat isn't concerned that he lost some of his players to international duty this week.

"The way you train is the way you play," he told Voetbal International.

"It was unfortunate that there were three or four boys not here because of internationals, but that just is how it is. Despite the weather we have trained very well. That was positive.

"The players showed passion and dedication. I thought that was nice to see . We also need to show it against Newcastle. It's a terribly important and special match."