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Newcastle United welcome Johnnie Jackson’s AFC Wimbledon to St James’ Park tonight knowing the winner will host Chelsea in the next round. The Magpies come into the game on the back of an impressive display during their 1-1 draw with Manchester City at the weekend, whilst their visitors have had ten days to prepare for this game.
Eddie Howe has stressed that he will play a strong team this evening as Newcastle United look to extend their good recent record in this competition. They were finalists in 2023 whilst they reached the Carabao Cup quarter-finals last year, only to be beaten on penalties by Chelsea.
However, the Magpies will be without Alexander Isak who continues to be sidelined with a broken toe. That could offer Will Osula the chance to make his first competitive start for the club following his move from Sheffield United in August.
With a trip to Goodison Park on the horizon, Howe could rotate tonight in a bid to give minutes to some of the fringe members of the squad. Here, we take a look at the starting XI that Howe could name for Newcastle United’s Carabao Cup clash against AFC Wimbledon:
9. Miguel Almiron
Almiron has been sparsely used this season but could be given a start tonight. | Getty Images
10. Will Osula
Osula is yet to make a competitive start for the Magpies, but that could change tonight. He enjoyed a good record in cup competitions for Sheffield United and will be keen to get his first Magpies goal sooner rather than later. | Getty Images
11. Harvey Barnes
Anthony Gordon’s lung busting effort against Manchester City on Saturday may mean he is asked to drop onto the bench with Barnes retaining his place on the left wing. | Getty Images
