Former Black Cats striker Kevin Phillips has told the Newcastle United winger to “be quiet” after his outspoken assessment of Sunderland in the aftermath of a fiery encounter.

Sunderland Legend Fires Back at Derby Comments After Heated Clash

Tensions have spilled beyond the pitch following the latest Tyne-Wear derby, with a Sunderland legend issuing a sharp response to controversial post-match remarks made by Anthony Gordon.

Former Black Cats striker Kevin Phillips has told the Newcastle United winger to “be quiet” after his outspoken assessment of Sunderland in the aftermath of a fiery encounter. The comments come after Newcastle suffered a 2-1 defeat at St James’ Park, a result that left emotions running high among players and supporters alike.

Speaking after the game, Gordon did not hold back in his evaluation, claiming Sunderland were “not a good team” despite their victory. The winger suggested the manner of defeat made the result even more frustrating, particularly after Newcastle had taken the lead.

However, Phillips was quick to respond, reminding Gordon of the bigger picture. The former striker pointed out that Newcastle had lost both Tyne-Wear derbies this season, questioning the credibility of Gordon’s criticism given the outcomes on the pitch.

Phillips also highlighted Gordon’s lack of impact in those fixtures, suggesting the winger failed to deliver when it mattered most. His remarks have added further fuel to an already intense rivalry, with Sunderland fans backing their club’s performances and dismissing Gordon’s claims as bitterness.

The incident has sparked widespread debate, with some critics labelling Gordon’s comments as “sour grapes,” while others argue his honesty offers a refreshing break from the usual cautious tone seen in post-match interviews.

Meanwhile, frustration continues to grow among Newcastle supporters, who were left disappointed after their side surrendered a lead to lose at home. The defeat not only intensified scrutiny on the team’s performance but also reignited tensions between the two North East rivals.

As the dust settles, the fallout from the derby looks set to linger, with both clubs—and their players—firmly in the spotlight following yet another dramatic chapter in one of English football’s fiercest rivalries.

“I get annoyed when I listen to a lot of Newcastle fans say (that in the) first half they dominated. They didn’t. For the first 10 minutes, they were the better team but, after that, Sunderland matched them, was far superior in the second half and deserved to win the game. It’s as simple as that.”