Alan Shearer has been discussing Sunderland this week and the prospect of our bitter rivals returning to the Premier League after their superb start to the Championship season.
With the Mackems currently top of the second tier and two points clear of Leeds in third after nine wins from their opening 15 games so far, Shearer was asked if he’d like to see Sunderland back in the big time on the latest episode of the Rest Is Football podcast.
Speaking to Gary Lineker and Micah Richards, our former No.9 explained why he would “absolutely” like to see Sunderland return, feeling the Tyne and Wear derbies are brilliant for the fans, great for players to be involved in and two fixtures to look forward to every season…along with a “guaranteed six points” for Newcastle!
Asked if he wants Sunderland back in the Premier League next season, Shearer said: “Yes, definitely. Absolutely! We want Sunderland back in the Premier League because it’s guaranteed six points for us, isn’t it?! That might come back to bite me in the future!
“Nah, the games are better. You want to play in those games. They are great derby games to play in at St James’ and at Sunderland. I do actually want them back up, because they’re not only good games for the players but for the fans to look forward to as well.”
I totally agree. It may have been amusing to see them struggle in recent years, but having two derbies a season and another chance to get one over our North East neighbours is good for the region and always adds some excitement – and plenty of nerves – to a Premier League season.
