Tonight’s repeat of last year’s final is important for both sides for two very different reasons.
While Newcastle’s blindingly wealthy Saudi owners may not have ‘the Carabao Cup’ at the top of their ‘How to Dominate Football’ list, it’s fair to say that Geordie fans wouldn’t mind any silverware to help themselves to it to remember what success at major trophies looks and feels like.
Such is the desire for glory at St James’ Park that a draw against Manchester United, who were humiliated by neighbors City on Sunday, and a team who have yet to really get their season going, is exactly the kind of encounter that some Newcastle fans would happen. But with a glut of matches due to Champions League participation, and the knowledge that his club has not won a major trophy since 1955, Eddie Howe refuses to take anything for granted.
“Manchester United is a top team with top players. One of the most important tests for any team is how you respond to adversity. That’s always what you’re looking for when you’re in the manager’s position,” the Newcastle manager said.
“They have had some really good results lately and have won some games late on. When you play against Manchester City, as we know, they are very, very difficult games.
“When you play a cup game you leave that form behind to a certain extent. This is a once-in-a-lifetime match and I am sure both teams will be motivated to try and win.”
For Howe’s counterpart, Erik ten Hag, the immediate task (the long-term task at Old Trafford is always to win titles and trophies…) is to try to get Manchester United as a team in the right direction. The 3-0 home defeat to City was worrying in more ways than a simple glance at the scoreboard reveals. After an impressive season last year, the team looked rudderless this season and without any overarching philosophy.
However, the Dutch manager is confident that his team will perform well sooner or later.
“Every day there is pressure on everyone involved in this club, but those demands and standards are a challenge that we must always take on with both hands,” said Ten Hag.
“While this hasn’t been the start to the season we all hoped for, I’m confident that as a collective we have the talent and attitude to move in the right direction.
“I believe it is only a matter of time before we show our true selves. It will come, I’m sure.”
Stay here for all the team news and action with kick-off at 8.15am.
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