Tension is building for the big Tyne-Wear derby this weekend, and both Newcastle and Sunderland fans have been warned about how they are expected to behave.
We have had to wait since 2016 for another clash between Sunderland and Newcastle United (in the league, at least). Given the form of the two teams right now, it should be a fantastic affair on Sunday.
While the Magpies are still to face Bayer Leverkusen tonight, most Newcastle fans have one eye on Sunderland. Indeed, demands are clear: Eddie Howe simply has to win this derby.
But, with all this hype around the game, there is an understandable apprehension from authorities as to how things will play out, and a message has been sent to both sets of supporters.
What police have said ahead of Sunderland vs Newcastle United
Assistant Chief Constable Helena Barron of Northumbria Police began her statement with a measured and positive message to the supporters.
She said: “There is understandably widespread excitement for the upcoming game between Sunderland and Newcastle at the Stadium of Light on Sunday. Football fans in the North East are well known for being amongst the most passionate in the country and this fixture is much-anticipated by supporters of both clubs.
“Our role, and that of our wider partners is to help ensure those attending the game can do so safely and that disruption for other members of the public is kept to a minimum. We would therefore ask all fans to work with us to help ensure the match goes ahead without incident.”
However, Barron was quick to remind fans what will happen if they do not adhere to these rules when they attend the game at the Stadium of Light.
“Anyone found responsible will subsequently face tough action, including criminal prosecution and potentially being handed a football banning order,” she added. “As well as the increased police presence at the ground, we will also have additional officers in both city centres. Anyone involved in criminality or disorder will be arrested.”
“I think we will pick a team that will be strong tomorrow and strong on Sunday, we have a few injuries to our backline which has been there for a few games now, we don’t necessarily have the depth at the moment, but we come here with a strong squad and we are ready for both games this week.”
Eddie Howe on team selection ahead of Bayer Leverkusen and Sunderland
Eddie Howe on team selection:
"I think we will pick a team that will be strong tomorrow and strong on Sunday, we have a few injuries to our backline which has been there for a few games now, we don’t necessarily have the depth at the moment, but we come here with a strong squad… pic.twitter.com/AknSsjmo2S
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) December 9, 2025
Transport alterations in place for Tyne-Wear derby
Meanwhile, travelling fans should be aware of changes to the transportation links heading in and out of Sunderland on the day.
Kevin Storey, operations director at Nexus, said: “The Tyne and Wear Metro will have a significant role to play in helping supporters get to and from the derby game at the Stadium of Light on Sunday. We have worked closely with Northumbria Police and our other partners on the transport plans for the match so that all our customers can have a safe and enjoyable day.
“We are looking forward to supporting the event and would ask that all supporters follow the travel advice set down by the police, Nexus, and by both football clubs.”
It’s worth noting that southbound trains on the Metro will not stop at the Stadium of Light station before the match, while northbound trains from South Hylton will not stop at St Peter’s station.
Supporters heading home after the match should make their way to the Stadium of Light Metro station, as the stop at St Peter’s will be out of action.
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