for Newcastle’s leaders to show the way and stand up

AMONG the various figures swilling around the tunnel area at St James’ Park on Sunday were two multimillionaires, casually dressed and full of smiles as they soaked in the atmosphere.

- By ROSS GREGORY

Sunderland owners Kyril Louis-Dreyfus and Juan Sartori’s presence at the ground was noticeable. Both before and after the final whistle, the duo mingled with players, interacted with fans and ensured everyone knew just what the game meant to their club.

Sartori, co-owner for almost a decade after first getting involved with the double act of Stewart Donald and Charlie Methven, was once a mistrusted figure among parts of Wearside. On Sunday, however, he travelled on the team coach to the ground alongside majority owner Louis-Dreyfus and was spotted pitchside as they took in the atmosphere.

They were right bang among it after the game too. Admittedly, it's easier to connect with fans when you've completed a double over your closest rivals in their own backyard, but it was striking to see them interacting with fans on the concourse at St James’ Park.

It was a huge game for the North East and their presence underlined the significance of the occasion.