Newcastle United got their revenge on Chelsea.
Only days after the Premier League defeat at Stamford Bridge, Newcastle ensured they marched into the Carabao Cup quarter-finals with a 2-0 victory at St James’ Park.
It was something of a throwback, too.
Eddie Howe’s side have not been at their best this season but were relentless in their press once again from the get-go and punished some sloppy play from the Blues at the back.
Here are five things we learned on a fantastic night…
Alexander Isak responds in perfect fashion
So much has been made about Alexander Isak over the last few weeks amid a worrying lack of form and suggestions he could look to leave this summer.
Poor against the Blues on Sunday despite his goal, the Sweden international was said to have left Joelinton “aghast” by opting not to square to him when in a promising position at Stamford Bridge.
Still, as all good strikers do, Isak responded to the criticism with a goal. A heavy press from Joelinton and Sandro Tonali saw Chelsea cede possession and the Italian’s intervention saw the ball make its way through to Isak, who slotted home with ease.
Sandro Tonali puts pressure on Bruno Guimaraes
Newcastle’s midfield balance has been something of an issue for a while now. Howe, after the loss on Sunday, admitted all of Tonali, Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton can improve.
While suggesting Guimaraes is at any risk of dropping out of the team would of course be too reactive, Tonali certainly impressed in the deeper role usually occupied by the Brazilian. It was he who helped set up the first goal and the Italy star certainly outshone a certain £100m+ World Cup winner in Enzo Fernandez…
Perhaps it’s now time to deploy the former AC Milan in the deeper role and offer Guimaraes the chance to press forward. It was a statement performance from Tonali, particularly after being subbed off early on Sunday.
Sean Longstaff underlines importance
Sean Longstaff can be quite a divisive player at times, there’s little doubt about that.
Still, the midfielder was impressive here. He may not be as fashionable a name as the usual trio in the middle of the park but was so effective on the night, shielding his back four well and moving to break up counter-attacks in transition.
Reportedly in line for a new contract, it’s performances like this one that suggest it’s probably worth it.
Joelinton flexes versatility muscle
It was great to see Joelinton back on the left wing, with Joe Willock behind him.
The Brazilian may have missed a sitter in the opening few minutes following Isak’s brilliant cross but was excellent throughout, leading the press on countless occasions and helping both full-backs as the visitors started to grow into the game.
Stints on the wing and in central midfield underline what a warrior Newcastle have.
Anthony Gordon shows little sign of rust
Anthony Gordon missed Sunday’s game with a groin injury, sparking concern.
Still, thrust back into the starting lineup here, the England forward showed little sign of rust. It was his intense pressing that set the tone at St James’ and though chances were few and far between, he certainly did not look like a player struggling for fitness.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
