Although he has hinted that there may be changes from Sunday’s game, Eddie Howe has insisted that Newcastle will take the Carabao Cup seriously this season.
Howe said: "It's very important. I made that clear in pre-season. I want to see a team that wants to win every game we compete in and every competition is treated with the same importance. I hope that's reflected in our performance tomorrow."
Newcastle will be aiming to avoid a successive defeat at this stage of the competition after being beaten by Burnley on penalties in Round Two last year.
Although they will start the game as heavy-favourites, memories of their defeat to Cambridge United in January will deter any thoughts of overconfidence on Wednesday night.
Here, we take a look at the side Howe may select to face Tranmere Rovers at Prenton Park on Wednesday evening:
5. LB: Paul Dummett
Dummett hasn’t started a match since the win at Elland Road in January. Although Howe revealed Matt Targett may be available for selection, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him rested once again and Dummett given the nod in his absence. Photo: Stu Forster
6. CM: Elliot Anderson
Anderson was superb in pre-season and was talked about as an outside shot for a starting spot in the Premier League. He’s been on the bench for all three games so far but this game could be his opportunity to impress back in the first-team. Photo: Gualter Fatia
7. CM: Sean Longstaff
Longstaff looked calm and assured against Manchester City and although he has had to settle for a spot on the bench so far this season, he will likely be the man that Newcastle rely on to control proceedings against Tranmere. Photo: Stu Forster
8. CM: Joelinton
Few players would be able to put in a massive performance against Manchester City and back that up just three days later, but if anyone can do it, then Joelinton is that man. His energy and physicality will be needed at Prenton Park. Photo: Steve Bardens