Newcastle United set up a Carabao Cup fourth round clash with Chelsea after edging past AFC Wimbledon at St James’ Park.
Fabian Schar’s first-half penalty separated the two sides.
Schar captained the side as one of three players to remain in the starting line-up from Saturday’s 1-1 draw against Manchester City. Joelinton kept his place in midfield while Harvey Barnes remains on the left wing.
Will Osula made his full debut following his £15million move from Sheffield United while Martin Dubravka was selected for his first appearance of the 2024-25 campaign.
Newcastle were flat in the first-half but went into half-time leading 1-0 after Schar converted from the penalty spot. It came after Joe Piggot brought down Miguel Almiron, a foul that was awarded by the linesman.
That proved to be the winner as Howe introduced the likes of Bruno Guimaraes, Anthony Gordon and Lewis Hall in the second-half to help see out the win.
Our writer Jordan Cronin was at St James’ Park - and here are his Newcastle United player ratings:
1. Martin Dubravka - 6
Did not look wholly comfortable after picking up a knock from a coming together with Omar Bugiel. Replaced at half-time. | Getty Images
2. Tino Livramento - 7
A comfortable evening defensively and overlapped Miguel Almiron well down the right. | Getty Images
3. Emil Krafth - 6
Showed his versatility, playing at centre-back and right-back before being brought off on the hour-mark. | Getty Images
4. Fabian Schar - 8
A pretty faultless display by the Swiss. Showed his passing range to twice put Miguel Almiron. Cooly converted from the penalty spot. | Getty Images