Newcastle play Manchester Utd at St James' Park on Monday

The company said that as most of the major shopping centres were closed, it could not justify the cost.

Fans will be forced to walk or drive to St James' Park in Newcastle for the match against Manchester United.

Nexus spokesman Huw Lewis said the firm had a duty to provide a service at times when it will be used.

He said: "Eldon Square is closed on New Year's Day, as is Marks and Spencer and Fenwicks on Northumberland Street.

"The Bridges in Sunderland is also closed. Without those shops being opened it would cost far too much to put on a Metro service.

"We do know there's a match on and would like to apologise to the fans."