Eddie Howe’s tenure in charge of Newcastle United was not even 24 hours old and the rivalry with Sunderland had already been discussed.
He was well aware of it, of course, but only when you’re involved can you truly appreciate the strength of feeling and what this game means.
Howe has prepared for today’s FA Cup third round tie as he would any other fixture but the head coach and his players know that this is no ordinary game.
That is why, shortly after the draw was made last month, Howe turned to the Geordies in his squad and asked them to address the rest of the players.
“I wanted them to set the scene,” he explains.
Howe wouldn’t disclose what was said, but added: “It was good. As I said before I think it was important we made reference to it then put it away for the games we had to come. But like most of these things, it’s better it stays internal.”
Howe was measured in his pre-match press conference. He refused to add further flames to the fire of the Black Cats Bar decoration fall-out on Wearside and when it was put to him that Sunderland boss Michael Beale said there is no difference between the clubs in terms of status, support and size if you take the Saudi money away, he said: “I’m not going to get into a war of words with any manager, I just don’t think it’s wise to make those comparisons or comments.
“We know who we are and what we are. I certainly know more about the size of this football club since managing it, and the future is very bright no matter what happens in the short term.”
The short-term is a first derby since 2016 and Newcastle desperation to end a nine-match winless run against their nearest rivals.
“They’ve always been very interesting games to watch as then a neutral,” said Howe of past encounters between the sides.
“I remember classic games of a few years ago and I won’t make reference to what happened because it wasn’t what Newcastle fans wanted in the games but I think it has given me a taste watching those moments. There are vivid memories from my side certainly of what the game means from the reactions, and certain moments in the games will live long in my memory.
“Again, I think it is more fuel for us about how important this match is.”
Howe’s last visit to the Stadium of Light was memorable for all the wrong reasons for Sunderland. It was 2017 and a late goal from his Bournemouth side relegated the Black Cats.
“This is a totally different game and this game will be unique,” says Howe, who is well aware of the home side’s dangers.
“They’re a very good team, full of young, bright prospects. The obvious threat is in the wide areas depending on who is fit.
“Roberts is a really good player, Clarke has done really well. They have good players in midfield as well.
“We don’t underestimate the challenge or underestimate them in any way.
“The players are briefed on what they can do but it’s going to be about what we can do and how we perform.”
Howe wants to right the wrongs of Newcastle’s recent derby record and their humiliating early FA Cup exits in the past two seasons.
“I’m well aware of my record here,” he said, with the Magpies having been dumped out by Cambridge and Sheffield Wednesday in the last two seasons.
“It’s not been good. The two games have been really disappointing. I can’t shy away from that, I have to hit that head on and we have to try and make up for it in this game.
“It’s our opportunity to progress in a cup competition we want to do well in. We want the extra games. Every part of us wants to progress and do well.”
