Football is frequently a game where scores do not wholly reflect the state of affairs on the field. Contrasting fortunes for two Premier League teams have proved the point this season, but this Carabao Cup clash could contribute to moving the needle in a more deserving direction.
Tactical analysis and match report by Emmanuel Adeyemi-Abere.
Newcastle United sit in 12th place in the top tier with 12 points. To all accounts, they have been much better than this position would suggest. The team have taken six points with two wins from three fixtures in the Champions League, having battled Barcelona admirably in a 2-1 loss at St. James’ Park. Domestically, the defensive record has been a firm foundation, especially on the road, and even if the gears have not fully clicked in post-Alexander Isak world, the signs are positive offensively.