• Premier League

Santon: Wear-Tyne derby 'bigger than Milan'

ESPN staff
October 18, 2012
Former Inter MIlan defender Davide Santon believes the Wear-Tyne rivaly outdoes the San Siro showdown © PA Photos
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Newcastle defender Davide Santon has said he believes the Wear-Tyne derby is fiercer than its Milan counterpart.

Santon, 21, who joined Newcastle from Inter Milan last summer, told BBC Newcastle: "The Milan derby is a very important game, but not like this one.

"Here, there is more rivalry, everybody thinks about the game - it's fantastic."

The Italy international recalled his first experience of the derby - a 1-1 home draw in March in which Shola Ameobi rescued a late point for the Magpies.

"Sunday we have to win 100%, but it's OK because if we put Shola Ameobi on the pitch, he scores," Santon said, referring to Ameobi's seven goals against Sunderland.

"It's an important game that we have to concentrate on and make sure we win. I played the second game [last season], it was fantastic.

"When Shola scored, I was so happy for the team because I know how important it is for the fans from the city."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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