Eddie Howe's Magpies are competing on four fronts this season
Newcastle fielded a strong side against Bradford in round three
Newcastle fielded a strong side against Bradford in round three
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Newcastle United shoul;d put aside the financial benefits of the Champions League and focus on winning more silverware this season, according to former Magpies and Spurs winger Chris Waddle.
Eddie Howe's side take on Thomas Frank's Tottenham in Wednesday night's Carabao Cup clash at St James' Park with both sides looking to progress in the Champions League - and continue their domestic success.
Spurs are currently third in the Premier League table under new manager Frank, while United are looking to build momentum after a difficult opening two months of the season.
The benefits of qualifying for Europe's elite competition are clear for all to see, especially in the climate of PSR and FFP, but Waddle has urged his former sides to target domestic trophies, with the FA Cup a big draw in the new year.
Speaking to BOYLE Sports, who offer the best football odds, Waddle said: “If you look at both Newcastle and Spurs, the best silverware to win is an FA Cup or a League Cup. I don't think they're going to win the Champions League or the Premier League.
"So, while a club might initially prioritise a Champions League quarter-final, the FA Cup and League Cup offer a strong possibility for these two clubs to compete for.
“By the time the FA Cup rolls around, they'll have a rough idea of their Champions League standing. If they're doing well, that's the priority, as that's where the money is.
"However, if they're not performing well in the Champions League, or their chances of success are low, then the League Cup and FA Cup become very important.
“Newcastle winning the League Cup last year was a great achievement, relieving the burden of not winning a trophy for many years. However, competing for the League Cup, Champions League, and Premier League simultaneously is very difficult.
“At this moment, I don't think Tottenham and Newcastle really need or want this League Cup game. But by January, when the FA Cup comes around, I can see them thinking they might have to go for it.
“Clubs are all chasing Champions League qualification because that's where the money is, unlike the FA Cup. While it's great for the fans – a day out at Wembley – it's difficult to explain that to club chairmen and owners when they're in the Champions League and stand to make a lot of money in the later stages.
“Owners prioritise the financial side. As a manager, you want to improve the team and win everything, but owners often look at the money.
"Sometimes you're going against their wishes because they see the Champions League as so important. They might rest players for the League Cup, putting out a weakened team, even if the squad has depth.
“So, at this minute, it doesn't look like a classic game. I think these two clubs will be weighing their options and looking at the FA Cup if they're not doing well in the Champions League.”
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