Nick Pope’s red card against Liverpool has thrown a major spanner into the works of Newcastle’s preparation for their first major cup final in 24 years.
As part of a settled back-five that has the best defensive record in the top-flight this year, Pope will be a major miss at Wembley.
However, Newcastle are far from a one man team and with the disappointment of Pope missing the game, comes the boost that Bruno Guimaraes will be back from his three-game suspension - the Magpies are still yet to win a game this season without the Brazilian.
So what side will Howe pick to start the clash with Manchester United at Wembley?
Here, we take a look at Newcastle United’s potential Carabao Cup final starting XI.
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However, Newcastle are far from a one man team and with the disappointment of Pope missing the game, comes the boost that Bruno Guimaraes will be back from his three-game suspension - the Magpies are still yet to win a game this season without the Brazilian.
5. LB: Dan Burn
As a boyhood fan, Burn will be relishing the opportunity to represent Newcastle in a major cup final. He has been in great form for the Magpies at left-back this campaign. Photo: George Wood
6. CM: Sean Longstaff
Longstaff’s double in the semi-final second-leg booked their place at Wembley and as another boyhood Newcastle fan, the midfielder will be keen to play a major role for the team on Sunday. Photo: Stu Forster
7. CM: Bruno Guimaraes
Newcastle have missed the Brazilian’s presence in midfield and it will be a welcome sight to see Guimaraes back in the middle of the park at Wembley. He makes the Magpies tick and will be one of the key pillars to success. Photo: George Wood
8. CM: Joelinton
Finals are often tense affairs and so Newcastle will need the industry and engine of someone like Joelinton in midfield to keep them ticking over. His work rate will be a major weapon, especially against his opposite number Casemiro. Photo: Stu Forster