MORE than half of suspected football hooligans wanted in connection with derby-day match violence have been traced by police.
Officers released 41 pictures of fans caught on camera both inside and outside the stadium as part of a huge investigation into the trouble.
Chaos flared during last month's clash between Sunderland and Newcastle at the Stadium of Light, with yobs setting off fireworks and hurling missiles at police.
Some fans even invaded the pitch at the end of the match which saw the Black Cats first home win over Newcastle for 28-years.
On the day itself, 29 people were arrested and action has already been taken against them.
Now, police are keen to find the remaining few who are still to be brought to task for their alleged behaviour.
To view pictures of all the suspects, click here.Officers trawled through CCTV footage and released 41 photographs of those wanted in connection with the trouble. Of those, more than 20 have been identified.
A spokeswoman for Northumbria Police said: "There have been more than 20 arrests since the appeal was launched.
"Inquiries are still continuing into the identities of those remaining.
"We urge the public to look at the pictures and if they recognise any of the suspects to contact us.
"We would like to thank the public and the media for their help."
Chief Superintendent Neil Mackay, of Northumbria Police Operations Unit, said: "The overwhelming majority of football fans are well behaved and want nothing more than to attend games free from the fear of violence, disorder or other crime.
"Anti-social behaviour should not be tolerated and, by working alongside us, fans can help us to prevent those responsible from attending matches."
Anyone who may know the identity of any person involved, or who has any information, is urged to phone 0345 604 3043, or ring independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 and you may get a cash reward.
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