Eddie Howe says Newcastle can take confidence from their last two results in the EFL Cup as they prepare for another difficult tie against Chelsea.
Howe’s men reached the quarter-finals by seeing off Manchester City and Manchester United and have one eye on replicating last season’s feat of reaching the final.
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Next up is a trip to Stamford Bridge to face a Chelsea side still in a transitional period under Mauricio Pochettino.
Howe said: “The two draws we had previously to this one were probably as tricky as you can get. We’ve played City, United and now Chelsea.
“The beauty of the two previous, is that it showed we can raise our game against top teams in a cup competition.
“We made great memories last year and we want to create more memories.”
Newcastle, like many other sides, have suffered from injuries this season but players are starting to return ahead of the hectic festive period.
Sven Botman came on for the last five minutes of Saturday’s 3-0 defeat of 10-man Fulham with Howe contemplating whether to throw him in from the start tomorrow night.
He added: “Sven has rehabbed really well, so we’ll have to make a decision on whether we want to start him in this game.
“He looked good when he came on so that was a good day really.
“There are certain players who lift the team in particular and Sven is one of those. He gives players confidence around him and makes a big difference. He’s of a big importance to us.”
Fabian Schar and Joelinton look set to miss the game with minor knocks while Alexander Isak is struggling with a groin problem.
Captain Kieran Trippier is back from suspension but may be rested.
