The iconic Newcastle United vs Sunderland matchup has been absent from the Premier League scene since March 2016. Their recent FA Cup clash in January served as a stark reminder of the contrasting fortunes of the two teams. Newcastle’s 3-0 triumph at the Stadium of Light underscored the widening gap between the rivals, with Sunderland graciously conceding ground to their opponents.
With Sunderland now under the leadership of Regis Le Bris and holding the top spot in the Championship, the possibility of their return to the Premier League looms large. This potential resurgence bodes well for the revival of the intense Tyne-Wear derby, a prospect that excites Newcastle legend Alan Shearer.
In a recent podcast appearance, Shearer playfully teased Sunderland while expressing genuine eagerness for their promotion. The allure of facing the Black Cats in high-stakes matches at St James’ Park fuels his desire for their return to the top flight.
Newcastle’s impressive performance in the January 2024 FA Cup showdown against Sunderland showcased their resilience and determination to prevail in crucial fixtures. With Eddie Howe at the helm, the team demonstrated composure and skill, securing a memorable victory that resonates with the club’s fans.
As calls for more derby matches echo through the St James’ Park faithful, the prospect of future encounters evokes excitement and anticipation among the Newcastle faithful. While Shearer’s “guaranteed six points” jab at Sunderland stirs playful banter, the unpredictability of football ensures that nothing is certain until the final whistle blows.
