Newcastle United make ‘decision’ on out-of-contract star as Jamie Carragher makes referee claim

Newcastle United are closing in on Sunday’s Carabao Cup final with Manchester United as they look to end their long trophy drought.

The Magpies fans have waited years for a cup final, and it is set up to be some occasion at Wembley Stadium on Sunday. Eddie Howe will be installing his masterplan as we speak in a bid to upset a very impressive Manchester United side, one that saw off La Liga leaders Barcelona as recently as Thursday night.

As Newcastle put the final touches on the preparations for the clash, we have rounded up all the latest news surrounding St James’ Park.

Longstaff’s future

Matty Longstaff looks set to leave Newcastle for good at the end of this season as his contract nears expiry.

The midfielder joined Colchester United on loan at the start of this season, but he saw his spell cut short after picking up a serious knee injury. At 22 years of age, he is yet to prove himself at St James’ Park, and Football Insider say the Magpies don’t plan to offer Longstaff a new contract.

The report adds that Longstaff also sees himself playing his football elsewhere next season.

Carragher jibe

Jamie Carragher has taken a llight-hearted swipe at referees amid the appointment of David Coote for the Carabao Cup final.

“Obviously you can’t referee the club you support,” Carragher said on Sky Sports. “It must’ve been hard for them to find someone for the Carabao Cup final with Manchester United involved!”

Newcastle don’t have a brilliant record with Coote in charge, winning just five of 15 games and losing as many as eight. That may be seen as a bad omen by some, but whether Newcastle come out on top or not should - in theory - be in their own hands.