Newcastle United and Sunderland will contest the Tyne-Wear derby at Premier League level for the first time since March 2016.
Eddie Howe is well aware of what the Tyne-Wear derby represents to Newcastle United supporters as Sunderland were promoted to the Premier League.
The Black Cats have not played in the top flight since 2016-17 and spent four seasons as a League One club. They secured a Championship return three years ago and are finally set to make a Premier League comeback after beating Sheffield United in dramatic fashion.
Despite trailing 1-0 with 14 minutes remaining, Sunderland fought back and snatched a stoppage-time winner through Brighton-bound Tom Watson. As Wearside erupted, Newcastle fans began googling when the Premier League fixtures are set to be announced.
The answer is June 19, with all eyes on the two Tyne-Wear derbies that will bring the North East to a standstill. March 2016 is the last time both clubs met at top-flight level, although the Magpies brushed Sunderland aside in the FA Cup 16 months ago.
Eddie Howe asked about Championship play-off final
Howe stayed coy when grilled by reporters about who he wanted to win the Championship play-off final a week ago. He said: “I think I was asked this yesterday and I very much sat on the fence. If the games come, we'll embrace the games.
“But it'll be interesting to see the play-offs. Obviously, I saw a bit of the game and I think the play-offs always add a lot of drama. So let's wait and see.”
Eddie Howe after Tyne-Wear derby last season
The Toon boss was in the dugout when Newcastle coasted to a 3-0 win at the Stadium of Light last season. Speaking post-match, Howe acknowledged the weight of the occasion for United fans.
“We know what this fixture means to everyone,” he said. “We know the importance of this fixture. The players know what it means. We enjoyed the occasion.
“It was nothing new for us and a normal day in the sense we’ve been playing high‑profile Champions League and Premier League games this season. The atmosphere wasn’t too dissimilar from playing at Milan or Paris Saint-Germain. The win means a lot. This fixture is hugely important.”
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Regis Le Bris hails Sunderland victory
Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris crowned promotion as “absolutely fantastic” as preparations begin for Premier League survival. Many are already tipping the young Black Cats outfit for relegation given the gulf between the divisions.
“It's a fantastic scenario for us,” he said post-match. “Like the semi-final, just absolutely fantastic. Tough for the coaches and fans probably but again we showed strong character. Even when we were not dominant, even when we have struggled as a squad - we stay connected and stick to our plan. Then later in the game, you feel that maybe can change the momentum. This was the case today.”
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