Newcastle United begin the defence of their Carabao Cup crown against Bradford City in the third round of the competition, with the teams set to lock horns for the first time since 2001
Newcastle United are taking on Bradford in the third-round of the EFL Cup(Image: Getty Images)
Newcastle United kick off their Carabao Cup defence with a potentially tricky match against League One high-flyers Bradford City. For the first time in seven decades, the Magpies are entering a competition as reigning champions, following their historic 2-1 victory over Liverpool at Wembley in March.
Eddie Howe’s team could do with a boost. A single win from their first five Premier League games has made for a shaky start, and they face title-chasers Arsenal this weekend.
Despite being two divisions below their upcoming opponents, Bradford aren’t to be underestimated. Currently leading League One with six victories from nine matches, they’ve already defeated two Championship teams – Blackburn and Stoke – on their way to the third round.
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If this season’s Carabao Cup has shown anything, it’s that upsets are never far away. Manchester United’s humiliating penalty shootout defeat to League Two minnows Grimsby in the second round set the precedent, reminding everyone that the tournament can be as unforgiving as it is unpredictable. Here’s everything you need to know before the match begins.
When is Newcastle vs Bradford?
The match is scheduled for Wednesday, September 24, with a kick-off time of 7:45pm BST. It will take place at St James’ Park in Newcastle upon Tyne, the iconic home ground the Magpies, where over 52,000 fervent fans are expected to cheer on the defending champions.
What channel is Newcastle vs Bradford on?
Supporters can tune in to the live action on Sky Sports+ and Sky Sports Football, with coverage kicking off at 7pm. Fans can also stream the match through the Sky Go app if they’re subscribers, or opt for a NOW TV pass for flexible viewing without a contract.
Post-match highlights and full replays will be available on the Sky Sports app and website shortly after the game concludes, ensuring fans don’t miss a single highlight.
Newcastle are the Carabao Cup holders after winning the competition last season(Image: Getty Images)Team news
Newcastle are likely to be without defender Fabian Schar for the upcoming match after he sustained a head injury in last week’s game against Barcelona. The team will also miss Jacob Ramsay, a recent signing sidelined with an ankle injury.
Another newcomer, Yoane Wissa, remains out of action due to a knee problem, but manager Howe has hinted at a possible return for the Brighton game on October 1.
However, there’s positive news as Anthony Gordon is back in contention after completing his three-match ban. Bruno Guimaraes, Joelinton, and Kieran Trippier are all expected to be match-fit following their rest during the goalless draw with Bournemouth on Sunday.
Howe indicated in Tuesday’s pre-match press conference that some rotation might be on the cards: “There will be an element of rotation,” he said. “We might look to give the guys who have played three times in a week a rest. We have to get the balance right and you don’t want to lose.”
Eddie Howe is without several key players
With the opportunity to test themselves against top-tier opposition, Bradford are expected to field a near first-choice XI at St James’ Park. However, there could be some alteration in the middle of park, after goalscorer Tommy Leigh was replaced at half-time against Cardiff at the weekend after seemingly picking up a knock.
When is the fourth-round draw?
The Carabao Cup fourth-round draw is hot on the heels of the third-round action, set to take place live on Wednesday, 24 September, right after Arsenal’s match against Port Vale. The draw is anticipated to kick off around 10pm, but the precise time will hinge on when the action at Vale Park concludes.
Catch all the drama on Sky Sports Football, Sky Sports News, and stream via the Sky Go app as the remaining 16 teams discover their fate.
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