And they could be lining up against a former team-mate and Geordie legend in Andrew Cole.
The Black Cats travel to the City Ground on Wednesday, July 30, to face Nottingham Forest (7.30pm kick-off).
Cole has signed a one-year contract with Forest, turning down Norwich, Burnley and Leeds United.
The former Newcastle United, Manchester United and Blackburn Rovers forward, didn't enjoy the best of times on Wearside.
What a shame, eh?
Cole made 84 appearances for Newcastle between 1993/95, scoring an amazing 68 goals.