A special cricket match will see first ever Newcastle v Sunderland clash at the Riverside – Kevin Keegan in charge of the black & whites.

After two derby wins already this season, Newcastle’s young stars had to settle for a draw against Sunderland on Tuesday.

Newcastle fan John West is on his way to Benidorm after the courts made an exception to banning order after Mitrovic incident.

‘Somewhat resembling two bald men fighting over a comb – Newcastle and Sunderland are never far from each others’ thoughts.’

John West of Durham pleaded guilty to running onto the pitch and taking out Mitrovic.

Aleksandar Mitrovic: “Yes I’m fine. It was just a kick, I was out for a few seconds but it was OK – I’m ready for another game…We need to prepare our body, our head for fight.”

The choice of man of the match at the Newcastle v Sunderland derby was more than bizarre…

After dispensing with Steve Black’s services, Rafa Benitez has taken on the role himself, of making sure his Newcastle team v Sunderland are mentally in the right place today…

Alan Shearer and joey Barton lead on the messages of support for today’s Newcastle team to be inspired by what has gone before.

Newcastle v Sunderland: ‘If you get what you deserve in this world then ‘Big’ Sam Allardyce and Sunderland are a match made in heaven.’