In an exclusive interview, former Newcastle United defender Danny Simpson has voiced his support for Sunderland AFC's controversial post-match antics following December's Wear-Tyne Derby. The Black Cats secured a narrow 1-0 victory over their arch-rivals at the Stadium of Light, with Nick Woltemade's own-goal proving decisive in a fiercely contested match.
Rivalry Fuels Iconic Team Photo
After the final whistle, Sunderland players gathered for a team photograph in front of their jubilant supporters, a gesture widely interpreted as a direct response to Newcastle's similar photo taken after a 3-0 FA Cup win at the same venue in January 2024. This symbolic act has since been immortalised as a trading card by Topps Now, cementing its place in derby folklore.
Simpson Embraces the Banter
Simpson, who enjoyed a three-year permanent stint with Newcastle and a loan spell at Sunderland in 2007, expressed no qualms about the Black Cats' actions. "Yeah, listen, why not? I'm all here for that," the 39-year-old told Mirror Football via 7bet online casino. "The rivalry is right up there with one of the best rivalries in the country. I'm here for a bit of light-hearted banter as well."
He elaborated on the familial and social dynamics that underpin the fixture, noting, "These families, the boyfriends and girlfriends are on the other side of the table and I'm sure they all do it in their own time as well. So yeah, why not? I think it just adds to it. If it was me, it'd wind me up a little bit more to what I get stuck in."
Matchday Atmosphere and Referee Understanding
Simpson also emphasised the unique intensity of the derby, urging match officials to appreciate the occasion's significance. "I just hope the ref understands the game and lets a few go," he said. "Sometimes you've got to manage the occasion. You don't want to ruin that game by sending people off."
Recalling a personal incident with Danny Welbeck during a previous encounter, Simpson added, "I remember I had an incident with Welbeck in a 50-50 and he's my friend and I smashed him. And I knew I had to, do you know what I mean? Because the fans are there with you. So I just hope the ref understands that and lets a few go because it's what it means to everybody. It's a bit of passion and fight."
The Build-Up and Global Appeal
Reflecting on what makes the Wear-Tyne Derby so special, Simpson highlighted the pervasive anticipation in the lead-up to the match. "Yeah, I've played in lots of big games, but like I said, I think the build-up, the week, when you go to the petrol station, the shop, the restaurant, it's all everyone speaks about," he explained.
He compared the atmosphere to that of a cup final, stating, "It reminds you of building up for a cup final, if that's the best way I can describe it. You can't read the atmosphere. Obviously, I've played at both stadiums, but it was just incredible."
Looking Ahead to the Next Clash
With Newcastle set to host Sunderland at St James' Park on Sunday, March 22, Simpson expressed hope for both sets of fans to experience the thrill of victory. "It's such a good feeling to come out as a winner of games. I hope, obviously, Newcastle fans, as the players, get to experience that now, especially at St James. I think it's been so long," he said.
He also noted the tight league standings, adding, "Obviously, with the league, you want to finish above Sunderland, like Newcastle fans do. It's a massive game, because there's only two points splitting the difference now between them. I think this will be extra special, and I'm glad I'm going to be there to be watching."
The match kicks off at 12pm, promising another chapter in one of English football's most storied rivalries.
