Newcastle United are into the Carabao Cup semi-finals.
Only days after the Premier League defeat at Brentford that had Eddie Howe questioning the attitude of some of his players, Newcastle responded in style.
Indeed, the Newcastle United manager saw his side sail into the Carabao Cup semi-final draw, which will take place on Thursday evening.
Sandro Tonali scored twice in a 3-1 victory over the Bees, offering some hope for the season ahead.
It has been a complicated campaign for the Magpies for all manner of reasons but a deep run in this competition is a real bonus.
While much will depend on the draw Newcastle get on Thursday (and they certainly haven’t been kind for a while now), there is genuine hope of another visit to Wembley.
Howe is a couple of results away from taking the club to their second domestic final in two years. That, given the club’s trophy record, is a pretty remarkable achievement.
The fact that Liverpool, Arsenal and one of Tottenham or Manchester United remain in the hat, however, does complicate matters somewhat.

Still, Bees boss Thomas Frank believes Howe’s side really are in with a chance.
Thomas Frank really believes Newcastle can win the Carabao Cup
As per Jordan Cronin of Newcastle World on social media platform X, Frank confirmed he was of the belief Newcastle really could win the cup.
“Yes I think they [Newcastle] can [win the Carabao Cup],” he said.
“I said to Eddie [Howe] I hope they win it.”
PIF have eyes on a trophy at Newcastle imminently
Clearly, any owners of a football club would want their team to have success.
It is interesting to note, however, that previous reports have suggested owners PIF really believe this season offers a chance to win a cup competition, given the relatively reduced schedule with no European football on the calendar.
Newcastle are certainly in with a shout. It could yet be a pretty fantastic season.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
