The case against two Premier League footballers charged with criminal damage after cars were allegedly attacked close to the home of their arch rivals has been adjourned in their absence.

Sunderland captain Lee Cattermole and loan striker Nicklas Bendtner face five offences of criminal damage relating to cars parked in Newcastle's Stowell Street in December.

The players, both of Darras Hall, Ponteland, Northumberland, were due to appear at Newcastle Magistrates' Court.

The case was heard briefly this morning when magistrates were told that it had been adjourned administratively at the end of last week, and the footballers' attendance was excused.

The case was re-listed for March 12.

Bendtner, 24, is on international duty with Denmark, who play Russia on Wednesday. Last week the same court handed him a 56-day driving ban after he was caught doing 103mph in his Porsche 911 turbo.

He is on a season-long loan from Arsenal.

Cattermole is 23, originally from Teesside, and is known for his tough-tackling midfield play.

Stowell Street, in China Town, is only two minutes from the home of Newcastle United.