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</span>A major police operation is under way in Newcastle as thousands of Sunderland fans descend on the city for the first Tyne-Wear derby for nearly two years.
Hundreds of Northumbria Police officers are on duty in an effort to keep rival supporters apart before and after the game at St James' Park at 1330 GMT.
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Violence has flared in the past and Northumbria Police have warned of "firm action" against troublemakers.
Free coaches have been laid on to ferry Sunderland supporters to the game.
The last top-flight meeting between the two sides was a draw, shortly before Newcastle were relegated.
A Northumbria force spokesman said: "People who come to the game on Sunday intent on causing trouble shouldn't bother because we will take firm action against them.
"They should stay away and let the real football fans enjoy their day out."
He said police had been working closely with both clubs and Newcastle City Council in planning for the fixture.
This article is from the BBC News website. © British Broadcasting Corporation, The BBC is not responsible for the content of external internet sites.
Hundreds of Northumbria Police officers are on duty in an effort to keep rival supporters apart before and after the game at St James' Park at 1330 GMT.
Related stories
Violence has flared in the past and Northumbria Police have warned of "firm action" against troublemakers.
Free coaches have been laid on to ferry Sunderland supporters to the game.
The last top-flight meeting between the two sides was a draw, shortly before Newcastle were relegated.
A Northumbria force spokesman said: "People who come to the game on Sunday intent on causing trouble shouldn't bother because we will take firm action against them.
"They should stay away and let the real football fans enjoy their day out."
He said police had been working closely with both clubs and Newcastle City Council in planning for the fixture.
This article is from the BBC News website. © British Broadcasting Corporation, The BBC is not responsible for the content of external internet sites.