Jim White reveals what someone ‘high up’ at Newcastle United told him ahead of semi-final vs Arsenal

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Newcastle United fans are very nervous ahead of facing Arsenal in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg.

The Magpies have a 2-0 lead after the first leg, but every Newcastle United fan knows that this tie is far from over.

While Newcastle beat Arsenal at the Emirates, there is every chance that the Gunners could triumph at St James’ Park.

There is a lot of apprehension, with Alan Shearer hoping that Newcastle do not concede early.

That is vital, while Newcastle fans must create an atmosphere that is uncomfortable for Arsenal to play in.

Newcastle United defending ‘precarious scoreline’ against Arsenal

After the first leg, Newcastle United are understandably the favourites to advance to the final.

But Eddie Howe and his players will know that their job is not done, while that view is shared by someone ‘high up’ at Newcastle United who spoke to TalkSPORT presenter Jim White immediately after the game at the Emirates Stadium last month.

“Somebody fairly high up at Newcastle United [told me] after the first leg: ’90 minutes is a long time, Jim. 2-0 is always a precarious scoreline’,” White said.

Danny Murphy then questioned if it came from a ‘football person’, with White insisting that he is ‘very much a football person’.

Newcastle United hoping to have Joelinton available

It is a difficult game for Newcastle to approach. They will kick the game off with a two-goal advantage, knowing that they have something to hold on to and defend.

In contrast, Arsenal need to attack Newcastle. That could potentially play into the Magpies’ hands, as it should mean there is space to exploit.

But the XI that starts on Wednesday night will be slightly different to the one that won the first leg in North London at the start of January.

Bruno Guimaraes and Fabian Schar are no longer suspended and should feature in the starting lineup. However, it remains to be seen if Joelinton will be available.

Joelinton injured his knee against Fulham on Saturday, and has been seen in a knee brace. However, Howe has not ruled Joelinton out, insisting that the knee brace was just a precautionary measure.

Hopefully he is fit enough to start, as this game feels perfectly suited to Joelinton’s qualities.