PREVIEW: Newcastle host Brentford in attempt to re-find form after Carabao Cup exit | OneFootball

Carabao Cup holders Newcastle United host high-flyers Brentford looking to rectify their exit from the league cup at the hands of Manchester City in midweek.

At the turn of the year, the city was full of optimism that 2026 would see the continuation of an overall upward trajectory, having taken three Premier League wins from three and still competing in all ongoing competitions.

Since then, a frustratingly quiet January transfer window has ensued, with the bid to retain the Carabao Cup now over.

A demanding schedule has not been kind to the League Cup holders, made more obvious by having faced three of Europe’s top clubs over the last week in PSG, Liverpool and Manchester City.

And as if things weren’t tough enough for the Geordies, Anthony Gordon is now the latest addition to an ever-growing injury list.

Despite not being as serious as first thought, the England international picked up a hamstring problem at the Etihad on Wednesday night and is expected to miss out against Brentford.

Gordon is joined by Brazilian midfielder Joelinton and wing-back Tino Livarmento on the sideline, whilst academy graduate Lewis Miley gets closer and closer to a return to fitness.

The most notable absentee of late has been captain, Bruno Guimares. Speaking ahead of Saturday’s evening kick off, Newcastle manager, Eddie Howe, claimed Bruno was: close to making his return to the pitch.

His reappearance would unquestionably give everyone at St James’ Park a much needed lift, as the Toon hope they can turn the tide against Brentford, who have lost in nine of their last ten trips up to the North East.

However, Keith Andrews’ side have found form away from home, winning four of their last five on the road in all competitions.

They have also enjoyed a far quieter January schedule and will be quietly pleased with their subtle business in the transfer window.

Kaye Furo arrived to provide cover for the Bees’ top scorer Igor Thiago, with the Belgian Under-21 international signing a five and half year deal- keen to continue his development made at Club Brugge.

There have also been contract extensions for stating eleven regulars Vitaly Janelt and Kristoffer Ajer, seeing them both continue to represent Brentford until 2030.

However, the West London club will be without forward Kevin Schade as a result of his red card last time out at Aston Villa.

Josh Dasilva, Fabio Carvalho, and Antoni Milambo all remain absent, facing lengthy spells on the sideline.

Sitting seventh in the Premier League table and with a Europa League spot only four points ahead of them, Brentford certainly won’t lack motivation to send their travelling fans home happy.

Though to see this through, Bees boss Keith Andrews, explained his players must keep cool heads.

He said: “Our players will have to deal with that emotion and the momentum swings in the game, and show a level of calmness, composure and growth to deal with whatever is thrown at us.

“It’s a special place to play football,” said Andrews, alluding to St James’ Park. “The fans get behind their team. It’s a cauldron and it can rattle teams coming to town.”

The match gets underway on Saturday 7th February at 17:30pm and is available to watch on Sky Sports.