Sunderland have released some early supporter information ahead of the Wear-Tyne derby
Newcastle fans arrive at the Stadium of Light on a double-decker bus ahead of their FA Cup third round tie with Sunderland
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Sunderland have confirmed there are currently no plans in place for the Wear-Tyne derby clash on Sunday, December 14, to be a 'bubble match'.
The recent FA Cup third round clash between the two sides had been given 'bubble match' status, meaning Newcastle fans had to travel by designated coaches to and from the Stadium of Light for United's 3-0 win in January 2024.
Bubble matches are games where all away supporters must travel on designated transport, usually club coaches or nominated train fleets, from designated pick-up points under police escort.
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But, in minutes released from the latest Sunderland Supporter Collective meeting, it has been confirmed by Sunderland's Deputy Safety Officer Ashley Lowerson that there are currently no plans for the fixture to be a 'bubble match'.
The minutes read: "The upcoming fixture versus Newcastle United was discussed. AL confirmed there are no plans for the fixture to be a ‘bubble match’ at this stage, so away supporters will be free to choose how they travel to the Stadium of Light.
"There are challenges as the footprint of the Stadium or Light has changed in recent months, and the Club is working closely with the police and fan representatives to make sure it’s a safe experience for all supporters."
It means Newcastle fans, as it stands, will be free to make their own travel arrangements to the first Wear-Tyne Premier League derby since October 2015.
The fixture was recently chosen for television coverage, with the game kicking off at 2pm on Sunday, December 14, after Sky Sports chose the fixture as part of their live broadcast selection on Super Sunday.
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