However, the local media suggest "Newcastle United versus Sunderland is not life and death. There are more important things."
All well and good, but will this fixture be any different?
A statement released by the Football Supporters Federation (FSF): “In recent seasons, the white-hot atmosphere of the Tyne-Wear derby has, occasionally, spilled over into disorder.
“However, in the past 12 months there’s been a level of co-operation among fans not seen for many decades, if ever.
“Back in January news emerged that a “bubble” match was to be imposed on Sunderland fans travelling to St James’ Park. These are games where no independent transport is allowed, infringing on freedom of movement and smearing all fans as hooligans.
“Fans from both sides of the divide stood together in a unique coalition to say “no” to the bubble, demonstrating the strength of feeling and supporter unity on this issue.
“Remarkably, the campaign succeeded in its goals with both clubs releasing a statement saying they would be “withdrawing the terms and conditions of ticket sales, which previously stated that all supporters must attend the game on official transport.”
This scheme is being backed by various supporters groups including A Love Supreme, Newcastle United Supporters’ Trust, NUFC Fans United, nufc.com, Ready To Go, Roker Report, Seventy3, #time4change, The Mag, True Faith and Wise Men Say.
The tragedy of Flight MH17 saw the deaths of Newcastle fans John Alder and Liam Sweeney, and Sunderland fan Gary Ferguson raised a staggering £34,000 for charity.
I was at Liam's funeral and afterwards a lot of us went back to St James' Park, then on to the Labour club.
A lot was said about the Sunderland fans and their fabulous gesture, but one guy said to me: "Nothing will change. Yes it was nice of them, but we would have done the same for them.
"They will come here in December and we will hate them as much as ever. We NEED to hate the Mackems!
"And they need to hate us. That is why the derby is so special."
What do you think?
PLEASE VOTE:
http://www.newcastleunited-mad.co.uk/interactive/voting_polls.asp
1) There will be no change.
2) Fans will be more friendly.
3) Friendly for one season only.