This is a competition that means plenty to both teams. Newcastle were last here in 2023, losing to Manchester United, an experience that will still sit with them. Liverpool have won the EFL Cup a record 10 times, last winning in the 2023-24 season in a triumph over Chelsea.

Liverpool do not have a recognised right-back for the Wembley final because Conor Bradley and Joe Gomez are still recovering from injuries so Jarell Quansah is likely to fill in. Newcastle have Anthony Gordon suspended while Lewis Hall and Sven Botman remain out injured. Both managers must decide which goalkeeper to put in.

Newcastle have conceded only two goals in their six EFL Cup ties against Nottingham Forest, AFC Wimbledon, Chelsea, Brentford and Arsenal, who were beaten 4-0 on aggregate in the two-legged semi-final.