Newcastle go into their EFL Cup semi-final second leg against Southampton boasting a 1-0 lead and are out to confirm a place in the final.
Joelinton scored the only goal in the first leg last week to put one Newcastle foot in the final where they will face either Manchester United or Nottingham Forest.
Southampton have not managed to beat Newcastle since a 2-0 English Premier League victory back in 2020.
Newcastle are inching ever closer to a first major piece of silverware, which has eluded them since their 1954-55 FA Cup triumph.
Southampton are now aiming to become just the third team in EFL Cup history to reach the final after losing the first leg at home.
Newcastle are unbeaten in their last four matches in all competitions, with their previous defeat coming at the hands of Sheffield United in the FA Cup last month.
Southampton have conceded 35 goals in their 20 matches in the Premier League so far this season – only Bournemouth have conceded more goals in the competition.
The Saints will have some confidence coming into the game on the back of a 2-1 victory against Blackpool in the FA Cup, knowing that a win is prudent.
Will it be yet another routine victory for the steady rising Newcastle or can Southampton muster a rare victory to progress to the final?
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What time does Newcastle vs Southampton start?
The game kicks off at 11pm Kenyan time at St. James’ Park.
Newcastle vs Southampton team news
Jonjo Shelvey, Emil Krafth and Matt Targett are the only injury concerns for Eddie Howe’s side ahead of the second leg.
Joelinton is assured of a starting role after his goal in the first leg and will play up front alongside Callum Wilson and Miguel Almiron.
The hosts have also confirmed the £45m signing of Anthony Gordon from Everton, but any debut for the 21-year-old may be from the bench.
As for the Saints, Duje Caleta Car who was sent off in the first leg, served his suspension in the FA Cup and will return to the starting line-up.
Gavin Bazunu, Mohammed Salisu, Carlos Alcaraz and captain James Ward-Prowse are all in line to get recalls into the first XI.
Newcastle vs Southampton head to head
Newcastle have a slight edge over Southampton and have won 44 out of the 106 matches played between the two teams, as opposed to Southampton’s 38 victories.
Newcastle vs Southampton current form
Both teams have won three out of their last five games, though Southampton have lost the other two compared to Newcastle’s sole 2-1 FA Cup defeat to Sheffield Wednesday.
Newcastle vs Southampton prediction
The home team are undoubtedly the better team and are on a more consistent run of form than their opponents. They are tipped to win and book a place in the final.