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Newcastle United face Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final without three of their most important players.
Bruno Guimaraes believes Newcastle United can cope without their star players for Sunday’s Carabao Cup final against Liverpool.
Last week, the Magpies suffered a major triple blow, losing £103million worth of talent with Anthony Gordon picking up a three-match suspension, while Lewis Hall (foot) and Sven Botman (knee) both require surgery to fix their respective injuries.
It was a challenging week for United but one they followed up with a 1-0 win at West Ham United, with Guimaraes the matchwinner. The victory took Eddie Howe’s side up to sixth in the Premier League table, level on points with fifth-place Manchester City.
And after the game, the Brazilian delivered a passionate interview.
“Massive win, I think we want to fight for the Champions League again,” Guimaraes told Sky Sports News. “It was a big win for us. Good to keep the clean sheet. and get the confidence back before the final. Massive win and happy for the team's performance.
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“When we play like that, we show the character of the team. We can beat any team in the world. We just have to be consistent. We keep the clean sheet, we could score more goals, but the most important thing is the three points tonight."
Bruno Guimaraes looks ahead to the Carabao Cup final
Focus swiftly turns to this weekend’s cup final, where Howe & Co have the opportunity to lift Newcastle’s first domestic trophy since 1995.
Liverpool are currently 15 points clear at the top of the Premier League table, and recently beat the Magpies 2-0 at Anfield. But skipper Guimaraes has fired a message to those doubting Newcastle in the absence of their star names.
Guimaraes said: “I think it is massive for the club’s history, and we want to be part of it. We know were going to play against one of the best teams. Hopefully we can go to Wembley and get the title [League Cup].
“We have seen people - doubters. We are focusing on ourselves. Missing Anthony Gordon, Lewis Hall and Sven Botman is not good for us, but to have players who can play well. Today we showed we have a strong squad.
“I believe that we can win. A final everything could happen. I believe our fans can make a difference for us. For us, it is like the World Cup. We want to make history for this club. It is a long time for the fans without a trophy.
“[Alexander] Isak at the moment, is the best striker in the world. Our midfield has been our strength."
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