Alan Shearer now shares what was ‘really positive’ for Newcastle after beating Chelsea

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Newcastle United are just two ties from Wembley.

Eddie Howe’s side got their revenge on Chelsea following Sunday’s 2-1 defeat in the Premier League by beating the Blues 2-0 in the fourth round of the Carabao Cup.

Newcastle were back to something approaching their very best at St James’ Park, too. They pressed with intent in the first-half, forcing countless errors from the expensively-assembled visiting team.

While Enzo Maresca’s side did grow into the game in the second-half, Newcastle largely held them at bay, albeit they were lucky when Joao Felix missed a sitter.

Still, it’s a big win for Howe. PIF are understood to view this season as a great chance to stage another deep cup run and Wembley is now in sight.

As you can imagine, Alan Shearer was delighted…

Alan Shearer says Newcastle turned back time in Carabao Cup win over Chelsea

Indeed, Howe’s side looked back to their intense best. Anthony Gordon raced around the pitch harrying defenders in the opening few minutes and that largely set the tone for the occasion.

Alexander Isak’s goal to open the scoring, after all, was brought about by a press from Joelinton and Sandro Tonali. Axel Disasi would put through his own net minutes later.

Speaking on BBC Radio Five Live at 9.39 GMT, Shearer said: “Good performance from Newcastle, who did the damage to Chelsea in the first half. The energy, the pressing, it was back to what these fans have gotten used to seeing under Eddie Howe.

“They had to defend in the second half, Chelsea missed a few really big chances, which helped. A win, the clean sheet, into the quarter-finals. A really positive night for Newcastle.”

Newcastle showed signs of their very best against Chelsea

It was the kind of performance that echoed their display in the 1-1 draw against Manchester City before the last international break.

There were a number of star performers, with Isak and Tonali among them.

Newcastle proved they can still get back to the kind of relentless level they were at two seasons ago. That feels hugely important.

More performances like this and Howe could be set for another big season.