Anthony Gordon’s Sunderland comments showcase why Newcastle lost Tyne-Wear derby
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Credit: Imago Mon 23 March 2026 21:00, UK Anthony Gordon’s claim that Sunderland aren’t as good as Newcastle United in the aftermath of the Tyne-Wear derby is simply baffling.Despite leading 1-0 at half-time on Sunday, a late goal at St James’ Park condemned Eddie Howe’s side to a 2-1 defeat.As a result, Newcastle’s Champions League hopes appear all but over, with Sunderland now leapfrogging their rivals.In the second half, the Magpies were simply rubbish, with the Black Cats deservedly taking home all three points.Therefore, Football Insider examines how Gordon’s claim after the Tyne-Wear derby will do more harm than good. ⚽ Newcastle Matchday ⚽ Team news, line-ups, expert previews and tactical analysis for every Newcastle United fixture. VISIT THE NEWCASTLE MATCH HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Anthony Gordon: Newcastle are better than SunderlandNewcastle head into the international break in perhaps the worst situation they have been in in years.The club have crashed out of both the FA Cup and Champions League within weeks, with the latter being an embarrassing defeat to Barcelona.Match stats NewcastleSunderlandPossession 59.1%40.1%Shots1617Shots on target47xG1.272.45Corners95Touches in opposition box2230Sunderland battered Newcastle stats-wiseThis was then followed up by a Tyne-Wear derby loss, which has put their European hopes at serious risk.As a result, many fans are no doubt frustrated, with the season now dwindling out despite it only being March.Therefore, Gordon’s comments in the aftermath of the result further enforce pure delusion.
The winger told Newcastle on 23 March: “Probably worse because the other one’s away. We shouldn’t lose to them.Full-time. pic.twitter.com/oafkJyGH9A— Newcastle United (@NUFC) March 22, 2026 “Away [from home], it’s more difficult because they have their fans, an atmosphere and a bit more pressure but, at home, we should not lose that game, not with the first half we had.“We haven’t been good enough starting second halves and it’s an ongoing problem.”However, this does not help anyone, least of all Newcastle.
If the players continue to boast such arrogance after a terrible defeat, it shows that the squad will not learn from the game.Sunderland have been solid performers in the Premier League all season, and this is proven by the fact that they are now above Newcastle in the table.Yet, Gordon’s mentality is perhaps evidence of why the club are now in this situation and lost the derby as they continue to underestimate their opponents, which is allowing them to get back into games.What does the future hold for Gordon at Newcastle?Ex-Everton, Aston Villa, and Aberdeen chief executive Keith Wyness, speaking exclusively to Football Insider that Arsenal and Liverpool want Gordon ahead of the summer transfer window.Both clubs have the winger on their radar, with the Magpies star potentially looking to leave St James’ Park over the coming months.Now, their pursuit could be boosted given the fact that Newcastle look unlikely to be in Europe next season.However, it remains to be seen if they can keep hold of their star man for the 2026-27 campaign. Don’t Miss a Beat: Your Newcastle Insider Access Get the full story from St James’ Park and Darsley Park with our dedicated expert hubs: Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Tyneside.