"I'm Pleased The Mackems Are Back"

Last updated : 22 October 2005 By Footy Mad - Editor

Former Newcastle United battler Warren Barton says he has been looking forward to the Tyne-Wear derby from the minute Sunderland confirmed their place back in the Premiership.

Warren Barton: "It is great that the derbies are back, the fixture list is not the same without them.

"It was fantastic to play in the derby games. I really enjoyed them. There are always plenty of tackles going in and the fans are really up for it.

"I have plenty of fond memories of them, but also some bad ones as well, but I am totally looking forward to this one.

"I remember when United played in the final ever derby at Roker Park and beat them. Peter and Les scored that night and it was a massive game for the region. It was important that we won that night, but they are always important games to win. The Sunderland game is big and the Middlesbrough games were also very competitive, and it is great for the Geordie public to have the derbies. I will definitely be taking in the Newcastle-Sunderland match on Sunday."