Newcastle United fans highlight assistant referee after Sunderland derby officials confirmed | OneFootball

The Premier League has named Anthony Taylor and his team for Sunday’s Tyne-Wear derby against Sunderland at St James’ Park, prompting frustration among some Newcastle United supporters. According to Sunderland Echo, attention has centred on assistant referee Gary Beswick.

Taylor will be assisted by Gary Beswick and Adam Nunn. Andy Madley is fourth official, with Paul Howard as VAR and Sian Massey-Ellis as assistant VAR.

Beswick was on the team for Newcastle’s FA Cup win at Aston Villa in February, a match marred by contentious calls. Tammy Abraham’s 14-minute opener stood despite appearing offside, with VAR not in operation. Lucas Digne avoided a red card for a late challenge on Jacob Murphy, and a handball in the area later produced only a free-kick as Newcastle won 3-1.

Taylor also has recent Sunderland history. He awarded two penalties as the Black Cats beat Brentford 2-1 on 30 August 2025, then took charge of their shock FA Cup defeat to Port Vale.

Head coach Régis Le Bris says his squad are struggling with injuries after the 1-0 loss to Brighton, when former Newcastle winger Yankuba Minteh scored. He added that Wilson Isidor was injured, and that caution around Brian Brobbey reflected players being on the limit.

Robin Roefs and Nordi Mukiele missed Brighton but could return, and Reinildo Mandava is expected to train this week. Dan Ballard has hamstring discomfort, Enzo Le Fee might be ready, while Nilson Angulo faces four to six weeks out. Mukiele is improving, though staff may avoid risking a longer absence.

Newcastle have issues of their own. Bruno Guimarães is out, he travelled to Barcelona but will not play and is due back after the international break. Fabian Schär is sidelined until April, Emil Krafth is out for the season, Lewis Miley is a doubt, and Sandro Tonali and Joseph Willock are being assessed, with midweek events likely to clarify matters.

Source: Sunderland Echo