Newcastle news: John Anderson on League Cup final

Former Newcastle defender John Anderson has called on squad players to “make a name for themselves” as “anything is possible” in the League Cup final.

Newcastle have been hit by injuries and suspensions in the last week, losing Sven Botman, Lewis Hall and Anthony Gordon, with the Wembley final set for 16 March.

On BBC Radio Newcastle, one fan called in and explained he was frustrated as some fans seem to hold little hope after the setbacks.

Anderson said: “I think cup finals as we all know are one-off games. We have seen some big upsets in finals in the past – Wigan beating Manchester City, Sunderland beating that great Leeds side. Even last season, Man Utd beating City, no one saw that coming. It’s all about the side that turns up on the day.

“Yes we have key injuries and if those players were fit they would play. But it’s an opportunity for people to come in and make a name for themselves on a big, big stage. On the day, anything is possible.

“It gives somebody else the chance to be a hero and go and make a name for themselves.”

“I think the league game next week against West Ham on Monday night is hugely important to bring momentum into the cup final.

“You have got to keep the faith and believe going down there. If we could win at West Ham it would be a huge confidence boost for us as well.”

You can listen to Anderson by hitting play above. And if you’re after some more Newcastle discussion listen to the latest episode of the BBC Newcastle Total Sport podcast here on BBC Sounds.