Sunderland owner Stewart Donald says he is looking forward to a great night when the Black Cats entertain Newcastle United U21s in the Checkatrade Trophy.
Jack Ross’ side take on the Magpies at the Stadium of Light on Tuesday and Donald says a fixture like this can capture the imagination.
“Well in some ways it’s a bit of a no-win game, as a lot of Newcastle United fans will see it as we are playing their reserve team,” he said.
“U21 team or not it is a fantastic draw for us, in a busy schedule, and I bet the manager is pulling his hair out a bit.
“It captures the imagination and I think it will help with the profile of the tournament as I think it will be the tie of the round - and we’ll get 30,000 people and it will be a great night.”
Since taking over the club in May 2018, Donald and Co have restored some stability which has seen them stake a claim for promotion from Sky Bet League One, and has thanked the fans for giving him a chance.
“The fans have been unbelievable, especially with what they have been through over the past few years,” he added.
“You could quite easily forgive them for being sceptical, they’ve heard it all before, but from the moment I wandered in they have given me a chance.
“They have got behind their club, got behind their team and with a slight change of culture, we have given them a team that are playing their hearts out.