“You just never know”: Ex-Newcastle defender on Tyne-Wear derbies ahead of Sunderland’s return

Former Newcastle United defender Steve Howey has welcomed Sunderland’s Premier League return but warned his old club not to underestimate their local rivals.

With the Tyne-Wear derby set to return to the top flight for the first time since 2016, Howey said the renewed rivalry will be a boost for the region both on and off the pitch.

Sunderland sealed promotion last month with a 2-1 win in the Championship play-off final, ending an eight-year absence from the Premier League. Their return means fans can look forward to two league derbies next season, a fixture that hasn’t been played since a 1-1 draw at St James’ Park nine years ago.

Howey, who never lost a derby as a player, said: “Newcastle fans will feel extremely confident, but it’s a derby, so you just never know. You don’t want one-sided games. It’ll be great to see it competitive and equal.”

Both clubs are expected to invest heavily this summer as they prepare for a high-stakes season and two of the most anticipated derbies in years.