Sunderland to wear blue against Newcastle after Premier League kit rule | OneFootball

Sunderland will wear their blue strip for today’s Tyne-Wear derby at Newcastle because of a kit clash under Premier League regulations, according to Sunderland Echo.

Newcastle have occasionally worn black and white in this fixture, most recently in last season’s FA Cup tie at the Stadium of Light. The clubs’ striped home colours are judged too alike to be paired. A change is mandated to give clear separation for players, officials, supporters and broadcasters, including those with colour vision deficiency.

The Premier League handbook, under Rule M.22, requires both teams to wear kits that are visibly distinct and in strong contrast. With Newcastle in black and white, Sunderland will switch to blue to meet that standard.

Le Bris said there will be late assessments on several players. Jocelin Ta Bi, Nilson Angulo, Bertrand Traore and Romain Mundle are already ruled out for this game.

He added that Dan Ballard has felt discomfort in the hamstring area and will be checked. Decisions could be made purely on medical grounds, with no unnecessary risks taken. Sunderland still have seven matches after this one and an international break to help manage any remaining rehab if needed.

Source: Sunderland Echo