Overview
- Kick-off is 8pm GMT on Tuesday, January 13, at St James’ Park in the opener of the two-legged tie, with Newcastle defending their EFL Cup crown.
- Jacob Murphy passed a fitness test and, along with Anthony Elanga, is in contention after Eddie Howe said both wingers have a possibility of featuring.
- Tino Livramento awaits a scan on a hamstring issue, Fabian Schar remains out with an ankle problem, Emil Krafth is still sidelined, and Dan Burn is weeks away, leaving depth stretched and academy players on standby.
- Howe said Profit and Sustainability Rules are limiting January spending as the club weighs short-term cover against long-term value, with a recall for loanee Matt Targett under consideration.
- Newcastle advance after a 3-3 (7-6 pens) FA Cup epic powered by Aaron Ramsdale’s three shootout saves, while City arrive fresher from a 10-1 win and face their own defensive absences with Ruben Dias and John Stones unavailable.