The two big North East sides are in the Premier League together for the first time since 2016
Sunderland's head coach Regis Le Bris (left) and Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe
Sunderland's head coach Regis Le Bris (left) and Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe
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For almost 10 years, there has been little debate. When it comes to football Newcastle United have been able to claim the 'top dogs' tag since they swapped places with Sunderland in 2017 and returned to the Premier League.
It marked the start of a tough period for the Black Cats, who were then relegated to League One, spending four seasons in England's third tier.
Their rise through the Championship and now into the Premier League has been nothing short of meteoric.
Not only do Regis Le Bris' side look set to avoid any sort of relegation battle after making their mark on the Premier League, but they stand a very real chance of finishing ahead of arch-rivals Newcastle.
While the rivalry between the two clubs have always been fierce, those of a black-and-white persuasion have ruled the roost for some time.
Less than a year ago, as Newcastle claimed the Carabao Cup trophy and qualified for their second Champions League campaign in three years, what the neighbours down the road were doing was of little consequence.
This season has been markedly different. Few expected Sunderland to perform so well in their first term back in the top flight, but they have exceeded all expectations.
And while Newcastle are focused on qualifying for Europe and extending their Champions League run as far as they can, they will have one eye firmly on the battle to be North East top dog.
They stole a march this week with an impressive 2-1 win at Tottenham, with Sunderland losing at home to Liverpool - remarkably their first defeat at the Stadium of Light - to leave Eddie Howe's side three poiints better off with 12 games remaining.
Sunderland will expect to close that gap with a home fixture against Fulham a week on Sunday, while United must face Manchester City at the Etihad.
But what about the rest of the fixtures? Much could depend on the Tyne-Wear derby date at St James' Park on March 22, with Newcastle looking for revenge for that abject 1-0 defeat to Sunderland in December. Certainly they will feel they can't play any worse.
On paper, Newcastle's home fixtures look favourable, although a rejuvenated Manchester United will pose more of a threat than was imagined a month ago.
It's the away games which will prove tough, with Arsenal and Chelsea still to come after Man City.
Sunderland will look to rebuild that strong home record, and have little to overly worry them, although their final two games on home soil against Man United and Chelsea will be testing.
They also have Forest and Spurs - with both clubs under new management by the time they travel to Wearside.
Like Newcastle, their away form has been where they have falled off, with testing trips to Bournemouth, Aston Villa and Everton to come . . . and that St James' Park showdown.
Newcastle United's remaining Premier League fixtures
Newcastle United's remaining Premier League fixtures this season
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Sunderland's remaining Premier League fixtures
Sunderland's remaining Premier League fixtures this season
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The fact that it could be a close-run thing is testament to Sunderland's incredible first season back, and Newcastle's stuggles to compete on four fronts.
Neither will want to admit they are concerned with where the other finishes, but you can be sure it's one victory both clubs will be determined to achieve.
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