Celebs have say on Black Country derby debate

Both Adrian Chiles and Suzi Perry agreed it was definitely a Black Country derby

Two celebrity football fans have shared their thoughts on whether the upcoming match between West Bromwich Albion and Wolverhampton Wanderers can be described as a Black Country derby.

Debate has raged as fans have their say on BBC Radio WM, with some making the point Wolverhampton has not historically been classed as part of the area and should instead be viewed as standing alone.

Adrian Chiles and Suzi Perry – Baggies and Wolves fans respectively – agreed Sunday's FA Cup clash could accurately be described as a Black Country derby; the first match between the clubs in more than a decade.

Mr Chiles said the vast majority of fans of both clubs came from the Black Country, and Ms Perry joked those who disagreed should “get out more.”

As for predictions of the game's outcome, Mr Chiles pointed out his team had humiliated Wolves in recent games.

“I’m just worried it’s our time to have our backsides handed to us on a plate, and they give us a good going over at The Albion,” he said.

“I don’t mind them winning as long as they don’t score more than two [goals].”

He predicted a 2-2 draw and added: “It’s either horrible or brilliant – but that’s football.”

Supporters will be travelling to The Hawthorns stadium on Sunday

Ms Perry believes there will be an incredible atmosphere at the match.

“I do think it’s fantastic that we’re all talking about this,” she said.

“It’s obviously more important to win the cup, we want some silverware, but in our hearts it’s great to beat our local rivals.”

• Hear on BBC Sounds from both Adrian Chiles and Suzi Perry

Mr Chiles said he felt there was more at stake for Wanderers fans.

He joked: “I think the interesting thing is Wolves have only got us to concentrate on hating, whereas we’ve got to spread the hate about a bit because we’ve got Wolves and Villa to worry about.

“I think it’s kind of worse for Wolves fans because it’s a bit of a no-win for them.

“If they beat us, they beat us as they would, because they’re a Premier League team with a more expensive squad, but if we win it becomes a story.”