Report claims Newcastle United CEO sent staff video after Sunderland derby defeat | OneFootball

David Hopkinson is said to have sent an emergency video message to Newcastle United staff after the Tyne-Wear derby defeat to Sunderland. The Times reports the chief executive contacted more than 500 employees to steady the mood.

At St James’s Park, Anthony Gordon put Newcastle ahead, Chemsdine Talbi levelled, then Brian Brobbey struck in stoppage time to complete the comeback. The away end celebrated wildly as home fans voiced frustration. The win moved the newly promoted Black Cats above their rivals in the Premier League table.

In the video, Hopkinson told staff the defeat hurt because people care and said adversity reveals, rather than defines, the club. He referenced Vince Lombardi’s line about how getting up matters more than being knocked down.

He added that the project is real and non-linear, that yesterday felt heavy but would not be carried for long, and that enthusiasm and conviction would remain undimmed.

The tone underlined an attempt to regroup after a bruising setback, with scrutiny also rising on head coach Eddie Howe following back-to-back derby losses. Sunderland’s focus is on the performance and progress under Régis Le Bris, with safety already secured and seven league games remaining.

Source: Sunderland Echo