Newcastle United visit Chelsea this evening with a place in the Carabao Cup semi-finals up for grabs (kick-off 8pm).
The Magpies bounced back from the disappointment of last week's Champions League exit against AC Milan with a 3-0 win over Fulham at St James' Park on Saturday. However, the visit to Stamford Bridge arguably carries greater importance as Eddie Howe's side look to advance into the last four of the League Cup for the second consecutive season.
Newcastle, who lost 2-0 in the final to Manchester United, have beaten both Manchester clubs to reach this stage. Alexander Isak's goal on Tyneside was enough to knock City out, while goals from Miguel Almiron, Lewis Hall and Joe Willock found the net at Old Trafford.
Chelsea present another difficult challenge but Howe is determined to progress as United aim to end their 54-year trophy drought.
"The two draws we had previously in this cup, they are as difficult as you can get," said Howe. "The beauty of those two games we have had has shown we can raise our game against top teams in this competition. We are determined to progress and create more memories. We know how difficult it will be, but we know the prize on offer."
Howe remains without several first-team players but is set to welcome back Kieran Trippier from suspension. Here's the Newcastle United starting XI Howe is predicted to name:
1. GK: Martin Dubravka
2. RB: Emil Krafth
3. CB: Jamaal Lascelles
4. NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 16: Sven Botman of Newcastle United arrives at the stadium prior to the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Fulham FC at St. James Park on December 16, 2023 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)