Eddie Howe insists injury-hit Newcastle will not rest players for Carabao Cup

…Manager without 11 players for Chelsea quarter-final on Tuesday

…Team that gives us best chance’ will feature for visitors

Eddie Howe’s commitment to guiding Newcastle United to their first major trophy in 55 years will be evident as he fields his strongest available team in the Carabao Cup quarter-final against Chelsea on Tuesday. Despite the ambition to finish in the Premier League’s top four, Howe, undeterred by injuries and eager to make amends for last week’s European exit, aims to lead Newcastle, last season’s Carabao Cup finalists, into a two-legged semi-final next month.

When asked about prioritizing the Premier League, especially considering upcoming fixtures against Liverpool, Aston Villa, and Manchester City in January, Howe emphatically stated, “Absolutely not.” He emphasized the desire for competition and challenging for trophies, indicating the team’s commitment to the Carabao Cup. Despite the potential clash with a planned warm-weather training break, Howe believes rest can be postponed.

Facing an injury crisis with 11 senior players unavailable, including Joelinton and Fabian Schär, Newcastle will be challenged against Chelsea. Howe, recalling their 4-1 league win against Chelsea last month, sees an opportunity despite the odds. Acknowledging players like Callum Wilson, Dan Burn, and Sean Longstaff are not fully fit, Howe expects them to start, stating, “I don’t see any medical reason why they’re not able to play two games in four days.”

The decision to start or introduce Sven Botman and the consideration of risking Alexander Isak with a minor groin problem are still pending for Howe as Newcastle prepares for the crucial quarter-final clash.