Toon Crier: Do we have to root for the Mackems edition

There's one game left in this match week, as Sunderland makes the trek into the Midlands to face Aston Villa. Villa sit one position on the table below Newcastle, acting as sort of a bumper between the Mags and the relegation zone. However, that lead is just three points. Given Newcastle's dreadful goal differential, a win by Villa would leapfrog them above Newcastle, and make the Mags the team to catch for Wigan in their annual sprint to safety.

For the Aston Villa take on things, check out 7500 to Holte. For the Sunderland perspective, head on over to The Roker Report.

As for Newcastle news....

Shola Ameobi says Newcastle needs "brave" men in the next three matches. The article also seems to indicate that Shola may have a role to play in the last three matches, with Alan Pardew seeking experience.

Alan Hansen of the Telegraph says that Pardew will make Newcastle stronger next season, should the Mags survive in top flight. He says next season, Newcastle should finish in the top half of the league.

Meanwhile, Lee Ryder gives indications that Pardew is fighting for his job. Pardew was told "in no uncertain terms" that Saturday's performance was unacceptable.

Pardew wins today's game of "You don't say?" by admitting that he made tactical errors against Liverpool.

The Mag calls for Steve Harper and Danny Simpson to be called into the Starting XI for West Ham away.

Papiss Cisse and his partner have been subjected to racist tweets.

Cisse has been linked to German club Dortmund, who may be looking to add some scoring punch should Robert Lewandowski depart.

There could be a lot of changes Tyneside this summer.

Consider this your open thread for Sunderland-Aston Villa.