Sunderland FC have issued an apology ahead of Saturday's Tyne Wear derby vs Newcastle United after a 'serious error'. 

Earlier this week, images emerged of Sunderland's Black Cats Bar, which was redecorated ahead of the visit of Newcastle on January 6.

The FA Cup tie is the first time the two sides have faced each other since March 2016.

Pictures circulated on social media of newly installed black and white signage in a hospitality suite at the Stadium of Light. 

The club's slogan had been changed to 'Howay the Lads', while there were also images of 'We are United' and 'Cheer Up Peter Reid', which prompted a furious response from Sunderland fans. 

Sunderland issued a statement on Thursday, January 4. 

It read: "Sunderland AFC acknowledges that a serious error in judgement was made in relation to Black Cats Bar earlier this afternoon.  

"We apologise to our fans for the understandable concern they have fairly voiced in response and this sentiment is shared by the Club’s Ownership Group and Board of Directors, who have requested an immediate review is undertaken to determine how this process unfolded.

"A direct decision has also been taken by the Ownership Group and Board of Directors to return the space to its original state and we once again apologise to our supporters that this was not addressed sooner."

Chairman Kyril Louis-Dreyfus took full responsibility in a post on Instagram. 

He wrote: "I would like to apologise to everyone associated with Sunderland AFC for the events that have unfolded today. 

"Like our supporters, I was disgusted and hurt by the pictures circulating online of the inappropriate signs that have now been ripped down. I take full responsibility for every decision that is taken by the employees of our Club and you have my word that I will personally make sure that we make the necessary changes required to improve because it is clear there are many areas where we need to be better.

"I have got to know many of you personally over the past three years and I have always tried to act for the good of the people our Club represents, which makes today even more disappointing. 

"I regret to have let you down, the greatest fans in the world. But I thank you for the trust you have shown in me, to lead your club, since the first day I arrived.

"I hope that in the months and year to come, I will be able to repay it to you - now my full focus is behind the team for our upcoming derby."

Sunderland take on Newcastle in the FA Cup third round at the Stadium of Light on Saturday, January 6 at 12.45pm.