How’s your nerves? The Carabao Cup semi-finals are here, and Newcastle United are ready for the first leg against Southampton.
Eddie Howe’s men travel to St Mary’s eyeing a positive result to take back to St James’ Park for the decisive leg in seven days’ time.
The Magpies have reached their first semi-final in 18 years, but Howe is determined to go one step further and secure a Wembley final.
“We’re delighted to be where we are, but the semi-final itself isn’t enough,” Howe said. “I don’t think it’s enough for anybody.
“I think you go into these games and to say you got to a semi-final means nothing, ultimately. You want to get one step further and I know the players feel the same way.
“Me and my coaching team feel passionate about it that we want to make the final, but we have to navigate these two games. They’re going to be very difficult.”
United’s struggle for goals in recent weeks has prompted some fans to debate recalls for Allan Saint-Maximin and Alexander Isak.
So, what Newcastle starting XI will Howe name? Here’s what we’re predicting:
The Magpies have reached their first semi-final in 18 years, but Howe is determined to go one step further and secure a Wembley final.
5. LB: Dan Burn
Memorably scored in United’s quarter-final win against Leicester City. Can he repeat his heroics?
6. CM: Bruno Guimaraes
Guimaraes made a miraculous six day recovery from an ankle injury to start against Palace. Thankfully, he came through unscathed.
7. CM: Sean Longstaff
Longstaff doesn’t get the credit he deserves for his relentless work out of possession. Needs a goal to silence his critics.
8. CM: Joe Willock
Willock’s pace and ability to break lines causes teams serious problems. His final product, however, does let him down at times.