Alexis Mac Allister admission gives Newcastle United Carabao Cup final hope despite Liverpool defeat
Newcastle United might have suffered an ominous defeat to Liverpool but Alexis Mac Allister has given them a glimmer of hope ahead of the Carabao Cup final.
In a preview of the massive Carabao Cup final to come on March 16, Newcastle United took on Liverpool in the Premier League on Wednesday but were soundly beaten 2-0.
The Premier League champions elect hardly had to move out of second gear as they cruised to victory with goals in either half from Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister, respectively.
Liverpool were aided in their efforts by mistakes from Nick Pope and Sandro Tonali and poor finishing from Callum Wilson but were well worth the three points.
Such a comfortable defeat could be concerning for Newcastle fans ahead of the League Cup final next month, as desperation to end the 70-year wait for a trophy grows.
However, goalscorer Mac Allister had admitted Liverpool are getting ‘tired’, which could play in the Toons’ favour.
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Liverpool feeling ‘tired’ ahead of Carabao Cup final
Speaking after the victory to TNT Sports, Mac Allister said on his side now having a full week off between games: “We need it. Definitely.
“We are a little bit tired. This week it will be nice to have some days off and to get some rest.”
Liverpool have a rare weekend off from competition as it’s an FA Cup weekend and they have been knocked out of the competition already by Plymouth Argyle.
That shocking defeat could be a blessing in disguise as it will give them a much-needed rest in what otherwise will be an onslaught of fixtures for the rest of the season.
The Reds are still in the Champions League and have both legs of their last 16 tie with Paris Saint-Germain to play ahead of the final.
With a league fixture against Southampton wedged in between, Liverpool will play three times in just six days and then have a mere five days rest before travelling to Wembley. If they are already feeling tired, they might be even worse for wear by then.
A different Newcastle will face Liverpool at Wembley
There is yet more cause for optimism for Newcastle fans as it’s likely to be a very different starting XI at Wembley than it was at Anfield.
Alexander Isak missed out on the trip to Merseyside as Howe did not want to risk a minor injury growing any worse and took him out of the firing line.
The star striker was desperately missed as he makes the side a million times better. Given he has already gotten the better of Virgil van Dijk once this season, it’s crucial he is fit for the final.
Additionally, Joelinton is close to a comeback and could make his return against Brighton on Sunday. The combative general is just what’s needed to take on Liverpool’s quality midfield.
Though Wednesday’s defeat does not bode well, Newcastle still have a great chance of winning the cup.
