The match, which kicks off at 12pm, has drawn a significant police presence in and around the stadium, with officers seen separating rival groups of supporters before kick-off.
Sunderland fans were escorted through the city centre and towards the ground under police supervision, as tensions between the two sets of supporters began from the outset.
Images before the game showed large numbers of officers stationed outside St James’ Park, forming barriers and monitoring crowds as they gathered.
Despite the heavy policing, both sides made their presence felt, with flares filling the air in club colours.
Newcastle United supporters offer a hostile reception to their bitter local rivals as Sunderland fans arrive at St James' Park for the Tyne-Wear derby between Newcastle United and Sunderland (Image: North News & Pictures Ltd)
Newcastle United supporters offer a hostile reception to their bitter local rivals as Sunderland fans arrive at St James' Park for the Tyne-Wear derby between Newcastle United and Sunderland (Image: North News & Pictures Ltd)
Newcastle United supporters offer a hostile reception to their bitter local rivals as Sunderland fans arrive at St James' Park for the Tyne-Wear derby between Newcastle United and Sunderland (Image: North News & Pictures Ltd)
Newcastle United supporters offer a hostile reception to their bitter local rivals as Sunderland fans arrive at St James' Park for the Tyne-Wear derby between Newcastle United and Sunderland (Image: North News & Pictures Ltd)
Newcastle United supporters offer a hostile reception to their bitter local rivals as Sunderland fans arrive at St James' Park for the Tyne-Wear derby between Newcastle United and Sunderland (Image: North News & Pictures Ltd)
Newcastle United supporters offer a hostile reception to their bitter local rivals as Sunderland fans arrive at St James' Park for the Tyne-Wear derby between Newcastle United and Sunderland (Image: North News & Pictures Ltd)
Newcastle United supporters offer a hostile reception to their bitter local rivals as Sunderland fans arrive at St James' Park for the Tyne-Wear derby between Newcastle United and Sunderland (Image: North News & Pictures Ltd)