HOWE: WEMBLEY IS A START NOT A ONE-OFF

Newcastle told final is springboard for success

EDDIE HOWE says Newcastle’s players should not treat today’s Carabao Cup final as a ‘once in a lifetime’ opportunity, as the club will be making a habit of such appearances.

It is 24 years since Newcastle’s last domestic final and more than half a century since the Fairs Cup victory of 1969.

But Howe urged his team to focus on the here and now rather than history when they take on Manchester United at Wembley today.

‘We want the players to become accustomed to these days and expect them, not look at this final as a one-off and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,’ said the head coach.

‘In our position, that wouldn’t be a healthy way to look at this game. We want to be very controlled in our emotions, use the energy of the crowd, but also have high expectations.

‘This is the future we all want and we know only hard work and staying true to our principles will earn us the right to achieve it. We hope this is the start of an era where we compete for honours on a more regular basis.’

This competition has been used by others as a springboard for better things and, while Howe sees the value in that, he is keen to stress that defeat would not be devastating.

‘Winning would help us accelerate the process, for sure,’ he said. ‘But it isn’t the be-all and end-all for what lies ahead. Regardless, the club is in a good place and can grow from here.

‘Of course, we want to put pressure on ourselves to achieve. There is no part of me that’s going to Wembley just to enjoy the day.’

Howe, meanwhile, will make a late call on how he will dress for the game. His players have decided against wearing suits but the manager is considering leading the team out in formal attire before changing into a tracksuit.

‘When we paid respects to the Queen, I felt I should wear a suit. Then I charged down the tunnel to get changed,’ he said. ‘Everyone asked how I did it so quickly — I was like Superman!’