“Disappointed” – Eddie Howe unhappy with one aspect of Newcastle win vs Brentford, could affect EFL Cup run | OneFootball

Newcastle United claimed a convincing 3-1 win over Brentford at St. James’ Park in the quarter-final of the EFL Cup to book their place in the final four.

The Magpies took an early lead through Sandro Tonali, who arrowed in a fierce hit from distance to open proceedings. The Italian international is enjoying a new lease of life in the base of the midfield. He allowed Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton/Joe Willock to push forward.

Tonali added a second before the half-time break, volleying a corner into the back of the net to give his side some breathing space.

Fabian Schar added the gloss on proceedings with a third goal before Brentford found their footing late in the second 45 after Yoane Wissa came on from the bench. He scored, but Newcastle could have made this tie 6-1 or more.

Despite the emphatic win that made it successive comprehensive victories in all competitions, Newcastle manager Eddie Howe was unhappy with one aspect of the game.

Howe said (via the BBC): “Disappointed with the bookings and to lose two key players in Bruno and Fabian (for the semi-final), but it goes with the territory. We are competitive and encourage the intensity, so you can’t have everything.”

The pair will be missing as Newcastle face Arsenal, Liverpool, or Tottenham Hotspur/Manchester United. Their absence could hand any opponent the advantage.

Guimaraes is a warrior in the engine room and was critical in the win over Brentford, winning five out of nine ground duels while playing two key passes and recording an assist. He bagged a goal against Leicester City over the weekend, continuing his rich vein of form this season.

Meanwhile, Schar is a mainstay in the backline and will also be a massive miss for the Magpies. Apart from being a solid defender, he can also chip in with the odd goal, making him a Howe favourite.

Newcastle will feel like they have unfinished business in the EFL Cup after losing the 2022/23 final. Howe and his boys can secure the first trophy for the club in nearly 69 years. First, they must negotiate the semi-final and potential final.