Newcastle fans arrive at the Stadium of Light on a double-decker bus ahead of their FA Cup third round tie with Sunderland

Sunderland have confirmed there are currently no plans in place for the Wear-Tyne derby clash on Sunday, December 14, to be a 'bubble match'.

The recent FA Cup third round clash between the two sides had been given 'bubble match' status, meaning Newcastle fans had to travel by designated coaches to and from the Stadium of Light for United's 3-0 win in January 2024.

Bubble matches are games where all away supporters must travel on designated transport, usually club coaches or nominated train fleets, from designated pick-up points under police escort.

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But, in minutes released from the latest Sunderland Supporter Collective meeting, it has been confirmed by Sunderland's Deputy Safety Officer Ashley Lowerson that there are currently no plans for the fixture to be a 'bubble match'.

The minutes read: "The upcoming fixture versus Newcastle United was discussed. AL confirmed there are...