Eddie Howe, who took over as manager of Newcastle United in 2021, had always hoped to have a taste of the derby when the Magpies played Sunderland in the FA Cup the following month.
In what will be their first encounter in almost eight years, Newcastle and Sunderland have been matched together in the FA Cup third round.
You can understand why Howe questioned whether it was a joke when the Magpies manager was told his club will be playing at the Stadium of Light next month, considering some of the incredible draws Newcastle has had this season in the Champions League and Carabao Cup. The Magpies had the option of drawing 62 other opponents.
It raises the question: did the manager of Newcastle ever believe he would have the chance to play the Championship team in a derby?
“Is that a loaded question?” He grinned. “I hoped to do it because we want to experience the big games and the big atmospheres.”We wish to confront issues and make an effort to succeed in them.
We take this obligation extremely seriously since we are aware of how significant this game is to our followers. When the game is scheduled, we’ll do all in our power to be ready.”
Those who were ‘dying for that game’, like Anthony Gordon, were unable to contain their joy after the draw. Gordon may have just recently joined the team, but considering the strong Geordie presence in the squad, the backroom staff, and behind the scenes, the forward didn’t need any reminder of the significance of the match the scenes at the training ground.
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