Newcastle United's tricky gk situation ahead of League Cup final

The Magpies face the Red Devils on 26th February

Newcastle United are currently enjoying a fairly successful campaign under Eddie Howe, sitting comfortably in the top 4 of the Premier League and already in the hunt for a trophy. The Magpies face Manchester United in the League Cup/EFL Cup final at Wembley Stadium on 26th February 2023.

The feeling heading into the final was of a fairly decent contest and both the clubs having the potential to come out of the clash as the winners. The Magpies' back line has been impeccable this term and they have the best defensive record in the Premier League.

But the situation might have changed as Newcastle United are now faced with a very tricky goalkeeper situation. First-choice goalkeeper Nick Pope picked up a straight red card in Premier League clash against Liverpool. Martin Dubravka was brought on to replace the England international.

The English goalie now missed three games due to suspension and will miss the League Cup final against Manchester United. To make the situation even worst 2nd choice Dubravka is cup-tied after appearing for Manchester United in the competition.

Dubravka was on loan at Old Trafford since the summer, making just two appearances in the League Cup. But the loan move was determined in the January transfer window and the Sokovian goalkeeper returned to St James' Park.

Who will feature in goal for Newcastle United in the League Cup final against Manchester United?

Former Liverpool goalkeeper Lloris Karius is Newcastle United's 3rd third string goalkeeper and is likely to start in goal for the League Cup final. Also, the German goalkeeper joined the club on a free transfer this season and is yet to make his debut for the club. But going off past final performances, Manchester United fans will be licking their lips heading into the final.

Mark Gillespie is also a part of the Newcastle United's first team goalkeeping union. But the 30-year-old is fairly unknown and has made more appearances for the Newcastle U21 team (4) than first team appearances (3).

Finally, Eddie Howe now has a very big call to make ahead of the League Cup final. But without a shadow of a doubt, Pope will be a big miss for the Magpies.