Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe fires Chelsea Carabao Cup warning ahead of Stamford Bridge visit

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe wants to make up for the Champion League exit with Carabao Cup progression when they take on Chelsea next week. United crashed out of Europe entirely when they lost 2-1 at home to AC Milan this week. 

They first have to get back on track when they face Fulham in the league this weekend but will now have to take the League Cup game against Chelsea seriously if they are to win any silverware this season. 

Asked if the match against Chelsea had taken extra incentive due to their recent form, Howe said he was going to approach the game with the best squad available. He told reporters: "We will go to Chelsea with the best team we can. No squad can cope with the number we've had (injuries). I have not got my violin out, I am not making excuses.

The Magpies boss also admitted he was getting a few players back to help boost the squad ahead of the game against Fulham. He added: "We are now getting a couple of players back but not in their best physical condition. Kieran misses this game through suspension so it is a good time for him to rest and we will see how he is next week.

"We will see how Anthony Gordon is today. Joe Willock is in a period where he has had a couple of injections and a difficult injury but he won't be back this side of January." 

Chelsea will take on Sheffield United this weekend in search of only their third home win of the season before turning their attention to the visit of United on Tuesday night.