EFL Cup: Newcastle top liabilities ahead of Manchester City visit

Despite a testing clash with Manchester City, Newcastle are top of bet365’s liabilities for the EFL Cup with punters happy to gamble on the Magpies knocking Pep Guardiola's men out on Wednesday night.

bet365’s Steve Freeth said: “Newcastle’s well publicised long wait for another major trophy was close to being ended in March when falling at the final hurdle against Manchester United in this competition.

“So despite closing in on almost 70 years without any major silverware, as well as drawing the best side in Europe in the shape of Manchester City, we’re seeing much more interest in the Magpies than any other team.

“And any team that stops the Citizens in their attempt at a quadruple is good enough for us.”

It’s not quite been the start Eddie Howe would have had in mind after last season’s top-four effort, losing three of their first four games, but considering the fixtures, nine points from their first six isn’t the worst return.

The losses to Manchester City, Liverpool and Brighton were all disappointing, but they’ve been sandwiched by the opening weekend demolition job of Aston Villa and a solid win over Brentford before totally dismantling a hapless Sheffield United.

Newcastle are 10/1 for the EFL Cup – joint sixth favourites with Brighton, but that’s on account of their draw, though they're only slight underdogs at 9/5 to beat City (7/5).

Beat Pep Guardiola’s men on Wednesday night and that price will collapse and punters seem to be all too aware of it. 

Tottenham were knocked out in the second round while one of Chelsea and Brighton will follow with the pair playing each other at Stamford Bridge, and Arsenal have a tricky visit to Brentford.

There are perhaps slight concerns over Newcastle’s squad depth, not helped by what could be a lengthy injury to Harvey Barnes. Bruno Guimaraes hasn’t quite looked the same following the arrival of Sandro Tonali and one injury to the back four could cause real problems.

But considering their wait for a trophy, had you asked fans last season if they’d prefer to finish in the top four or win the EFL Cup, few would have spent more than a few seconds considering their answer.

And if they can get past City tonight, they’ll have every chance of finally ending their drought.

Liam Williams

• Newcastle United F.C.
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