Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where this week our main focus is Sunderland vs Newcastle.

After nine years, the Tyne-Wear derby returns to the Premier League, with the two sides separated by just one point.

Mark Critchley and Andy Jones join Matt Davies-Adams to look ahead to Sunday’s clash before turning their attention to the fixtures elsewhere including Chelsea vs Everton, Crystal Palace vs Manchester City, and Liverpool vs Brighton, where the Mohammed Salah situation rumbles on.

Host: Matt Davies-Adams

With: Mark Critchley & Andy Jones

Executive Producer: Abi Paterson

Producers: Jay Beale & Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Xabi Alonso’s Real Madrid reign is in the balance.

They’ve won just two of their last eight - and player power is threatening to undermine him

So, is he on his way out?

Host: Ayo Akinwolere

With: Dermot Corrigan, Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero and Seb Stafford-Bloor

Executive Producer: Abi Paterson

Producers: Guy Clarke and Paul Iliffe

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

December is traditionally sacking season. But things feel a little different this season.

So have clubs become more patient? And why?

Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic’s Jack Pitt-Brooke and Mark Critchley. James Horncastle also drops in to chat Como’s Cesc Fabregas - one of football’s most exciting up and coming coaches.

Host: Ayo Akinwolere

Guests: Jack Pitt-Brooke, Mark Critchley. James Horncastle

Executive Producer: Abi Paterson

Producers: Mike Stavrou, Nick Thomson

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.