BBC Newcastle has signed new three-year commentary deals with both Newcastle United FC and Sunderland AFC.

Starting this season, the deal means BBC Newcastle will be able to continue providing exclusive commentary of all games for both clubs, home and away, for the next three seasons.
Matthew Raisbeck will head up the match day commentary team for BBC Newcastle at all the Newcastle United games, with ex-Newcastle United and Republic of Ireland defender John Anderson as regular summariser.

For Sunderland AFC, Nick Barnes will lead the BBC Newcastle commentary as the club face their first season in the Championship since 2006. Nick will be joined in the commentary box by former Sunderland captain Gary Bennett.
Doug Morris, managing editor of BBC Newcastle, said: “Both Newcastle United and Sunderland AFC have loyal followings and we know our listeners love the commentary that BBC Newcastle provides on both clubs.
“I am delighted that the station will continue to cover all the matches of both teams for the next three seasons. We’re hoping for a great season back in the Premier League for Newcastle and for Sunderland to be back in the top flight in 12 months.”