The Hibees head across the city on Saturday 7 October, with the match kicking off at 3pm at Tynecastle.
Both sides come into the derby off the back of solid performances. Hearts have won three of their last four matches, whilst the Hibees went the whole of the month of September (three wins and two draws).
Speaking to Hibs TV ahead of the match, Newell explained how excited the lads were for the occasion.
“We have had a really good training week. We have a lot of information given to us and we’ve put a lot of work in on the training good. We’ve got no excuses, we are all ready and everyone is buzzing.
“We are five games unbeaten with some really good performances in there. I feel like we could’ve maybe had a few more points in there in those games, but the confidence is high and it has been a good turnaround since the Gaffer has come in.
“Everyone is embracing it, we are learning new things every day, we are getting used to how they work and what they want from us.”
This season, Newell has continued to develop as a player and leader on the pitch – captaining the Hibees four times, when Paul Hanlon has been absent. With several new faces joining in the summer, Newell explains how the senior players have helped the lads prepare and understand the importance of the fixture.
“You have passing conversations with people, and when you live in Edinburgh, you get a feel for it on Derby. The longer you are here, the more it means to you personally – like it has done for a lot of us.
“There will be no confusion or nativity from any of the new lads, there is enough of us who have been here long enough to make sure everyone is prepared for what to expect on Saturday.
“These are games everyone looks for in the calendar. You enjoy playing in every game, don’t get me wrong, but there is something extra special in this one.
“Personally, I love playing in them; I am lucky enough to do what I love for a job and these games are like a cherry on top when they come along.”
