Newcastle United returned to winning ways in the Premier League on Saturday with a 3-0 win over Fulham – but their focus swiftly turns to the Carabao Cup.
The Magpies take on Chelsea at Stamford Bridge this evening (kick-off 8pm) with a place in the semi-finals of the competition up for grabs.
Eddie Howe’s side have beaten Manchester City and Manchester United to reach this stage. They stand just three games away from matching last season’s feat of going to Wembley.
“The beauty of the two games we’ve had previously is we’ve proved we can raise our game against the top teams in a cup competition that brought so many great memories for us last year,” Howe said in his pre-match press conference. “We’re determined to try and progress, we’re determined to try and create more memories.
“We’ve seen the rewards you can get and the experiences you can get.
“The build-up to the final was a brilliant thing to be part of and of course the final itself was a disappointment, but the build-up to it was incredible to see our supporters and how we took to London and the whole spectacle. I’m just devastated we didn’t get over the line in the end.
“I think it’s helped us for this year and we know this game’s going to be very difficult but we know the prize if we can get through.”
United were knocked out of the Champions League last week and the growing list of injuries has impacted Howe’s ability to rotate his starting XI. That will remain the case tonight.
Here, NewcastleWorld takes a look at the latest injury news from both camps:
The Magpies’ No.1 underwent surgery on a dislocated shoulder earlier this month and isn’t due back until April.
1. Nick Pope – out
The Magpies’ No.1 underwent surgery on a dislocated shoulder earlier this month and isn’t due back until April.
Manquillo is currently sidelined with a groin issue.
2. Javier Manquillo – out
Manquillo is currently sidelined with a groin issue.
Targett picked up a hamstring injury in the previous round. Is sidelined until February after undergoing surgery.
3. Matt Targett – out
Targett picked up a hamstring injury in the previous round. Is sidelined until February after undergoing surgery.
Anderson hasn’t featured since October because of a back injury.
4. Elliot Anderson – out
Anderson hasn’t featured since October because of a back injury.