When Jack Colback smashed Sunderland’s third into the top corner of the Gallowgate End goal to crown last season’s 3-0 victory, Alan Pardew spun on his heels, sickened. He had also just identified his first summer signing. Four months later, Colback was joining his hometown club on a free transfer. The bitter Black Cats tweeted a picture of his celebration at St James’ Park and a statement was released expressing their ‘dismay’ at his decision to quit the club who had ‘nurtured him’. Colback and his new employers kept their counsel. Until now. The 25-year-old is the feature interview in tomorrow’s matchday programme and the cover carries an artist’s drawing of the black-and-white-clad midfielder with his hand on his heart.
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Newcastle welcome Sunderland to St James' Park on Sunday
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Jack Colback joined Newcastle after leaving Sunderland on a free transfer
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Alan Pardew said Colback has grown as a player since joining his side
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Sunderland boss Gus Poyet hopes Colback has a 'stinker' on Sunday
Colback spent 14 years on the books at @placeholder and made his first team debut in 2009