Jacob Murphy takes cheeky dig at Sunderland as Newcastle United stars attend the Great North Run

Jacob Murphy Takes Light-Hearted Dig at Sunderland Fans During Great North Run

Jacob Murphy couldn’t resist throwing a playful jab at Sunderland supporters while appearing at the iconic Great North Run in Newcastle.

As the world-renowned half marathon returned to Tyneside, the city’s streets were closed off to make way for thousands of runners, all taking on the 13.1-mile challenge in support of various charities.

This year, Newcastle United duo Jacob Murphy and Nick Pope had the honour of officially starting the race, firing the gun to launch the event in front of tens of thousands of participants.

The tradition of Newcastle stars kicking off the Great North Run continued, following in the footsteps of manager Eddie Howe, who held the role in 2023 — the first Toon boss to do so since Sir Bobby Robson in 2007.

Murphy Aims Cheeky Comment at Sunderland Supporters

Always known for his sense of humour, Murphy brought his fun-loving personality to the occasion. Dubbed the team’s “dressing room DJ,” the winger was in high spirits during a BBC interview before the race.

While speaking about the atmosphere, Murphy couldn’t help but slip in a tongue-in-cheek remark aimed at Newcastle’s fierce rivals.

“I’m looking forward to seeing all the people,” he said with a grin. “Seen a lot of Newcastle fans so far. Even seen some from across the river… boo!”

It was all in good fun, but very on-brand for Murphy, who enjoys a bit of banter and regularly provides light-hearted moments within the squad.

Though known for his pace and stamina on the pitch, Murphy has yet to take part in the run himself. However, fans would love to see him tackle the course one day. In contrast, he jokingly ruled out teammate Fabian Schär as a potential runner, recently calling him a “terrible” long-distance runner in an interview.

Murphy’s Words Add Spice Ahead of Tyne-Wear Derby Return

With Sunderland promoted back to the Premier League in May, the Tyne-Wear derby is officially back on the calendar — and Murphy’s cheeky comments will only add more fire to the rivalry.

The Premier League clashes will mark the first league meetings between the two clubs since 2016. Newcastle haven’t beaten Sunderland in a top-flight game since 2011, though they did earn bragging rights in a dominant 3-0 FA Cup victory in early 2024.

Murphy, clearly hyped for the derby’s return, will have the chance to back up his banter on the pitch when Newcastle visit the Stadium of Light in December.

The winger will be hoping to replicate some of the club’s most famous derby days, including the unforgettable 5-1 thrashing of Sunderland in 2010, when Andy Carroll netted a hat-trick.

For now, though, Murphy can enjoy his role as race starter — offering encouragement to runners, good-natured digs at rivals, and a smile that Newcastle fans know all too well.