Newcastle defender Habib Beye is free to play in Saturday’s derby clash with Sunderland after an appeal against his red card on Monday evening was upheld.

Newcastle midfielder Joey Barton will escape punishment for his controversial challenge on Dickson Etuhu in the Wear-Tyne derby.

THE FA have confirmed they will be looking into Joey Barton’s controversial challenge on Sunderland’s Dickson Etuhu in Saturday’s Wear-Tyne derby.

The Football Association have confirmed they will be looking into Joey Barton’s controversial challenge on Sunderland’s Dickson Etuhu in the Wear-Tyne derby.

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Sunderland chairman Niall Quinn believes the club’s “colossal” derby clash with Newcastle could become the north-east’s biggest sporting event.

Nolberto Solano condemned Sunderland to a 13th successive Premiership defeat from the penalty spot as Newcastle re-ignited their Champions League challenge.