Eddie Howe and Dan Burn get awards ahead of Tyne-Wear derby

Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe, defender Dan Burn, and former Sunderland AFC chairman Sir Bob Murray were among seven individuals awarded honorary degrees at Northumbria University's winter graduation ceremonies.

Howe and Burn received the degree of Doctor of Civil Law in recognition of their leadership at Newcastle United, their community work, and their contributions to the club's recent success.

Howe said: "Dan and I were blown away by the gesture and the acknowledgement.

"It’s an incredible thing and very gratefully received.

"You never set out to achieve things individually; it's always about the collective, so to be recognised in any way is an amazing thing.

Eddie Howe and Dan Burn with their honorary degrees from Northumbria University. (Image: North News & Pictures Ltd)

"I accept this on behalf of our entire coaching team and all the staff working incredibly hard to bring success to Newcastle United."

Newcastle are preparing for the first men's league match against bitter rivals Sunderland since 2016, which ended in a 1-1 draw at St James' Park.

Burn said: "It feels surreal to receive this incredible honour – it's a very proud moment for my family and me.

"There are always knockbacks in people’s careers, but the important thing is still having the fire to do what you want to do and not let those knockbacks stop you.

"While I was fortunate to score in the cup final, bringing that trophy to Newcastle was a team effort.

"This recognition belongs to everyone who made that moment possible."

Both Howe and Burn actively support Newcastle United Foundation’s outreach work and regularly engage with the community.

Howe and Burn helped Newcastle to their first domestic trophy in 70 years. (Image: Owen Humphreys)

Their achievements include guiding Newcastle to their first domestic trophy since 1955, after beating Liverpool to the Carabao Cup in March.

Sir Bob Murray CBE, former Chairman of Sunderland A.F.C., was also awarded the degree of Doctor of Civil Law.

Sir Bob said: "To be honoured by Northumbria University is a privilege I value enormously.

"As a former student of Newcastle Polytechnic, this recognition carries real personal significance.

"The North East shaped who I am, and the education I received here gave me the foundation for my career in business, football and community work.

"Northumbria’s reputation for ambition, innovation and inclusion mirrors the principles that have guided my life.

Sir Bob Murray. (Image: Foundation of Light)

"To be acknowledged by the university where my journey began means a great deal.

"I hope this award encourages others to aim high, work with integrity and believe in what they can achieve."

During his time as chairman, he delivered projects including the Stadium of Light and the Foundation of Light.

Northumbria University awards honorary degrees annually to individuals who have demonstrated outstanding achievement or service in their field.

Other recipients this year included Oscar-winning cinematographer Lol Crawley and St Oswald’s Hospice chief executive Steph Edusei.

Former director of Santander Universities UK Matt Hutnell and Dr Marios Loukas, president of St George’s University, were also honoured.