Callum Wilson gives verdict on Newcastle United’s win over Sunderland and Tyne-Wear derby atmosphere

Callum Wilson has insisted Newcastle United were “dominant” over Sunderland while hailing the Tyne-Wear derby atmosphere.

A highly anticipated affair resulted in a routine 3-0 win for the Magpies against their bitter rivals. The first derby for almost eight years was somewhat of an anti-climax as Newcastle coasted to end their nine-game winless run over the Black Cats.

Victory gave Eddie Howe much-needed respite as discontent had begun to ripple given United’s poor league form. Unfortunately for Wilson, he missed the Sunderland clash with a calf injury and watched on as fellow striker Alexander Isak stole the post-match plaudits.

The Toon number nine had spoken about wanting to play against Sunderland but was sidelined for what might prove his only opportunity to feature in a Tyne-Wear derby. Wilson viewed the game from the stands, praising the atmosphere as “unbelievable” at the Stadium of Light.

“The atmosphere was unbelievable,” he told the Footballer’s Football podcast. “The way the fans travelled down there, fair play to the police. They did their job, ushering them in and out safely so there was no trouble.

“In terms of on the pitch, it was a much-needed win and a special one because it was a derby game. We gave the fans something to cheer about because it’s been a long time since the previous one (win vs Sunderland).

“They were way too nice. They have a new manager and are settling into a style of play. We played reasonably well, they didn’t have much of the ball. They didn’t even have a shot on goal in the first half.

“We were dominant, the better team and we won. It was the only option. We’re in different leagues and we’ve come a long way since the days of them being in the Premier League.”