Eddie Howe gives update on Newcastle crisis ahead of Manchester United fixture at Wembley

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

Eddie Howe has 'no doubts' about Loris Karius' mental state ahead of playing Manchester United in the League Cup final. United are set to make the trip to Wembley to play Newcastle on Sunday afternoon, but Eddie Howe will be without his No.1 goalkeeper Nick Pope, who received a straight red card for handling the ball outside his box against Liverpool.

Newcastle will also be without Martin Dubravka, who is cup-tied after playing for United on loan earlier this season, which means Howe has the choice between third-choice goalkeeper Karius and fourth-choice Mark Gillespie. ALSO READ: Barcelona announce travelling squad for Man United second leg Karius signed for the North East club on a free transfer as a backup in September and he's set to make his Newcastle debut in the League Cup final at Wembley, which is something Howe was asked about at his press conference. "I feel disappointed for Nick [Pope], that was my whole emotion after the game and yesterday," Howe said. "He's somebody that's given his all for the team and he's been outstanding this year, so I felt for him. "But also pleased for another goalkeeper who gets the opportunity.

I think we have to be very positive about our situation and the game. Yes, it's a blow to lose Nick, but we still believe in the team and the group we have. "It's why you have a squad of goalkeepers and to have someone of Loris' [Karius] experience and Mark's, they've both played a lot of football in their careers.

I've had conversations with both players and they're in a good place. "I've got no doubts about his [Karius] confidence levels.