Man arrested on suspicion of involvement in racist abuse at Tyne-Wear derby

The fixture on March 22, where Sunderland triumphed 2-1, was halted for three minutes in the second half following reports of discriminatory abuse from spectators.

Both teams denounced the episode, with Sunderland affirming their support for Geertruida.

A Gateshead local was detained on Tuesday and subsequently freed on bail as inquiries proceed, according to a Northumbria Police announcement.

"Racial abuse holds no place in football or our society, and we refuse to accept such actions," stated Detective Inspector Phil Guard.