Newcastle United legend Terry McDermott has backed manager Rafael Benitez to keep calm and composed in the Tyne-Wear derby this weekend.
North east rivals Newcastle and Sunderland will square off against each other at St. James' Park and while the fixture always produces a feisty encounter, the derby on Sunday will be especially tense due to the fact that there is so much at stake for both sides.
Magpies great McDermott believes that the clash is sure to be a nervy one for both the Magpies and Black Cats but has backed 'Mr. Cool' Benitez to rise above the tension and guide the Magpies to victory on the day.
McDermott said: "It will be loud, raucous and nervy. But the one man who'll rise above the frenzy is Rafa. He's Mr Cool in situations like this.
"There hasn't been a more important derby for years but Rafa won't be fazed.
"This is a man who has been involved in Champions League finals, El Classico and title deciders. He'll use his vast experience from those matches to ensure Newcastle's players handle the occasion."
