Before the first Tyne-Wear derby since 2016, Michael Beale has argued that Sunderland are just as large as rivals Newcastle.
The Black Cats have won six of the last seven meetings between the two clubs, with the most recent encounter being in a 1-1 tie at St James’ Park in March 2016 thanks to Aleksandar Mitrovic’s late point for the hosts.
Newcastle was demoted from the Premier League that season, finishing just two points ahead of their bitter rivals in 17th place.
However, the two North East clubs’ football fortunes have diverged dramatically since then.
After narrowly avoiding relegation, Sunderland experienced back-to-back relegations and languished in League One before a recent recovery.
Meanwhile, Newcastle returned to the Premier League at the first attempt and, thanks to a highly publicized Saudi takeover, have become one of football’s wealthiest clubs.
‘There is merely a financial difference between the two teams right now, but there is no difference in terms of status, support, size, and pool of the club,’ Beale stated before of Saturday’s FA Cup meeting.
‘That is quite similar, that is on level with each other, but when you look at their roster, they have obviously spent a lot more money and our guys have a lot more to prove than maybe one or two of the Newcastle players. So that is what I expect from mine.
‘It’s one thing to want to play in the Premier League and believe you’re talented enough, but it’s also crucial to seize opportunities when they come your way.’
Beale’s side has made a solid start to the season after reaching the Championship playoffs in their first season back in the second division.
Sunderland are presently sixth in the league, with the highest average attendance of 40,994.
