Newcastle United will take on Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley, hoping to end a 70-year wait for a major trophy. Despite recent setbacks, there remains optimism in Eddie Howe’s camp as they prepare for a tough challenge against the Premier League leaders.
The lead-up to the final has been anything but smooth for Newcastle. Star winger Anthony Gordon received a straight red card in the FA Cup, ruling him out of the final against his boyhood club. As if that wasn’t enough, key defenders Lewis Hall and Sven Botman were sidelined with injuries requiring surgery, leaving the squad significantly weakened. Losing three influential players in just 72 hours was a major blow, evoking memories of the 2023 final, where goalkeeper Nick Pope’s suspension forced Loris Karius into an unexpected debut, which ultimately saw Manchester United lift the trophy.
Despite these setbacks, morale remains high within the Newcastle squad. The midfield trio of Bruno Guimarães, Sandro Tonali, and Joelinton are expected to play a key role, matching up against Liverpool’s midfield. Howe, known for his steady approach, has ensured his team stays focused and positive. His philosophy of “never too high, never too low” will be crucial in helping Newcastle navigate the challenge ahead.
Newcastle’s 1-0 win over West Ham in the Premier League was a significant morale booster. The victory, earned through grit and determination, prevented them from heading into the final on the back of three consecutive defeats. It also confirmed that the squad’s unity remained intact despite recent misfortunes. The result lifted spirits and provided much-needed momentum, while the absence of fresh injuries came as a relief.
The biggest selection challenges for Howe revolve around replacing the absent trio. In goal, Pope is expected to start despite only recently returning from injury. The center-back pairing of Fabian Schär and Dan Burn will remain unchanged, but at left-back, the decision is trickier. Matt Targett is the only natural option, but having not started a Premier League match this season, Howe may instead opt for Tino Livramento, who has the pace to handle Liverpool’s attacking threats.
Replacing Gordon on the left wing is another key decision. Harvey Barnes is the most natural choice, having put in a solid performance against West Ham, but Howe may instead deploy both Joelinton and Joe Willock in an interchangeable left-midfield role. This setup would provide extra midfield cover and defensive stability, though attacking potential could be sacrificed. An alternative approach could see Barnes start to exploit Liverpool’s makeshift right-back position, given Trent Alexander-Arnold’s injury.
The significance of this final for Newcastle cannot be overstated. While the club was under pressure to win in 2023 against a vulnerable Manchester United side, this time, they embrace the underdog role against a dominant Liverpool. The fans will travel in hope rather than expectation, knowing their team faces one of the toughest tests in football.
Newcastle’s journey to the final has been impressive, having overcome Chelsea, Nottingham Forest, Brentford, and Arsenal. One more victory would complete a remarkable cup run. Meanwhile, Liverpool’s midweek Champions League exit against PSG could impact their mindset either fueling their determination or leaving them emotionally drained.
If Liverpool play at their best, they are expected to win. However, if Newcastle can capitalize on any signs of vulnerability, they have the talent to seize the moment and make history. A victory would spark celebrations across the city, with fans and players alike raising a toast to long-awaited success.
