Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer has sparked a fresh wave of rivalry after expressing his frustration at Sunderland’s unexpected surge up the table this season. The former Premier League record-breaker did not mince words as he questioned how the Black Cats — who only recently fought their way out of relegation trouble — now find themselves sitting above his beloved Newcastle.
Shearer, speaking in a sharp, fiery tone, admitted he remains “surprised and unimpressed” by Sunderland’s rise, insisting their form is more fortunate than earned.
“I’m not impressed, they’re just lucky,” Shearer fumed. “Look at how they’re sitting ahead of Newcastle. A team that came from relegation shouldn’t be above us, not with the squad we have.
“Newcastle should be miles ahead,” he insisted. “This is not the level the club should be at. Sunderland being above us is something I never expected this season.”
As the table continues to take shape, all eyes will now be on the two clubs. Newcastle will aim to climb back into their expected position, while Sunderland look to prove that their current success is more than just luck — and that Shearer’s fiery criticism won’t derail their momentum.
His comments have already triggered a new round of banter between both fanbases, reigniting the age-old rivalry that has defined football in the North East for decades.
Sunderland’s remarkable climb has shocked many across the league, with pundits praising their resilience and transformation. But Shearer remains unconvinced, stressing that Newcastle should never be trailing their rivals in the standings.