Arsenal are one of the finest teams on the continent, but Eddie Howe believes he has their number and will be confident that they can hold them off at St. James’ Park and advance to the tournament’s epilogue.

Newcastle were riding the strong stream of first-class form at that point, Isak firing true from all angles and United bearing fluency and verve that resurrected their fight for top four in the Premier League, put them in this wonderful Carabao Cup position.

Recent results have been less auspicious, with successive home defeats against Bournemouth and Fulham. That needs to change.

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Nick Pope will be eyeing a return to the grass after his dragged-out injury troubles. The shot-stopper has been an unused substitute for the past two matches but will hope to displace Martin Dubravka for this mammoth match.

Emil Krafth and Callum Wilson may feature, but this one comes too soon for Jamal Lascelles and Harvey Barnes, whose incisive finishing would have been nice against the resilient Gunners.

Winning the midfield battle will be key, and Howe will be delighted to welcome Bruno Guimaraes back to the domestic competition after he missed out in January due to suspension.Arsenal showed during their recent thrashing of Manchester City that they can play with unfettered brilliance up front when they choose.