Newcastle United hero Nobby Solano has warned the players ahead of today's derby: Don't lose!

Solano wrote in the Evening Chronicle: "The Tyne-Wear derby is a special, special game.

"In derbies you have to do it for the fans and the city of Newcastle so there is big expectation.

"I have experienced both sides of the coin in derbies, losing one under Ruud Gullit (we all know what happened then) and winning my fair share at home and away.

"If Newcastle win this one it will be the perfect Christmas gift to their fans. Losing is unthinkable.

"If any new players are reading this and think they can rock up for a meal or a drink in town after the game, they will be in for a short, sharp shock.

"You have to go in hiding almost."