Real Radio in the Northeast will not carry football commentary of Newcastle and Sunderland games next season after a price increase demand from Newcastle Utd.
The station then decided to not cover Sunderland either, for fear of fans accusing them of bias.
It means commentators Bob Moncur and Gary Rowell will no longer be hired by the GMG Radio station, but the nightly Legends phone-in show with Malcolm MacDonald, Micky Horswill and Bernie Slaven will continue.
Commercial competitor Metro Radio told RadioToday.co.uk it has no intentions of taking over the commentary rights, whilst Sun FM says it is looking at the situation but has made no decision yet.
BBC Radio Newcastle will continue with their coverage as normal.
A spokesperson for Real Radio said, “Real Radio will not be broadcasting football commentary when the new football season commences. However, the station’s commitment to football continues with its dedicated weeknight Legends phone in show, which has just resigned Newcastle Legend Malcolm MacDonald on a long-term deal, cementing the on-air team with Micky Horswill and Bernie Slaven.”
