Agbonlahor suggests ‘huge’ Kieran Trippier cup final blow after Newcastle United reveal
Gabby Agbonlahor has insisted having Loris Karius in goal for the League Cup final on Sunday (26 February) will have a “huge” negative effect on Kieran Trippier and the rest of the Newcastle United defence.
The former Aston Villa striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, urged Man United to “shoot on sight” as well as target Karius with set-pieces.
First-choice goalkeeper Nick Pope is suspended for Sunday’s clash with Man United at Wembley, while Martin Dubravka is cup-tied.
Karius and Mark Gillespie will battle it out for the starting berth – with Eddie Howe confirming the former Liverpool ace is “ready to play” despite not yet making a Newcastle appearance.
The German famously made two blunders for the Reds during the 2018 Champions League final loss against Real Madrid.
Agbonlahor told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “I think the confidence of that Newcastle defence will be really dented.
“It’s going to be huge.
“They’re used to having a keeper behind them who you can rely on, week-in and week-out.
“Now they’re going to have to defend differently. They may have to get tighter to the likes of Rashford and stop him from going inside.
“Karius hasn’t played much football in years.
“I think it’s a big problem for Newcastle. If I’m Man United, I’m shooting on sight.
“Free-kicks, corners, crosses – it’s all going on Karius’ head. He will be nervous.”
Newcastle sit fifth in the Premier League, while Man United are third in the table.
The winners of Sunday’s clash can secure Europa Conference League qualification for the 2023-24 season.
In other news, Football Insider updates as Newcastle set sights on signing Premier League star.