SUNDERLAND icon Fabio Borini has returned to his former home ahead of today’s Tyne-Wear derby.
The Black Cats host Newcastle at the Stadium of Light this afternoon for the first time in almost eight years.
Ex-Sunderland star Fabio Borini has returned to the North East for the Tyne-Wear derbyArfa Griffiths – The Sun
Borini’s wife, Erin, was heard saying that Newcastle is her favourite city
Borini, who made 93 appearances for Sunderland from 2015 to 2018, arrived in England on Friday ahead of the match.
But his wife, Erin Borini, caused a stir among fans after making a controversial comment.
Erin took to Instagram to share a video of her and Fabio driving through Newcastle with a caption that read: “Haway the Lads! Ready for tomorrow!”
However, she could be heard saying: “One of my favourite cities. I love this place. Feels like we are home!”
Fans took to social media to react, with one person tweeting: “Staying in Newcastle and his missus saying it’s one of her favourite cities, not been a good 48 hours for Sunderland… you love to see it.”
A Newcastle supporter added: “Even zooms in on St James Park man, honestly it’s class.”
While another wrote: “Driving into Newcastle. You couldn’t make this stuff up. Even their ex players love Newcastle…one of their favourite cities!!!”
Sunderland chiefs have already come under fire this week for decorating the Black Cats Bar with Newcastle slogans.
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They were forced to issue an apology on Thursday after receiving backlash from fans.
An official statement read: “We acknowledge a serious error in judgement was made in relation to Black Cats Bar.
“We apologise to our fans for the understandable concern they have fairly voiced in response.
“The space has been returned to its original state.”
Ex-Sunderland winger Borini is set to be in attendance among the crowd at today’s game.
He spent three years with the Black Cats and scored 17 goals before joining AC Milan in 2018.
The 32-year-old now plays for Sampdoria in Serie B.