'I think it's still very early, but a lot of people would've changed their opinion already: anyone going there will find things tough' Alan Shearer's surprise assessment of Newcastle United's arch-rivals Sunderland

Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer has given a surprising assessment of arch-rivals Sunderland, stating that many people would have already changed their opinion about them following their return to the Premier League. Shearer believes Sunderland have 'sent a message' to the top flight and warns that any team facing them will find things difficult. His comments come as a notable acknowledgment from a Newcastle icon about their rivals' strong start.