Alan Shearer believes the Carabao Cup final is an opportunity for Loris Karius to remind everyone he's a capable goalkeeper. The Newcastle United shot stopper has not played competitive first-team action in over two-years but could be thrust into the limelight at Wembley.
The German goalkeeper has played in big occasions in the Champions League final, but is remembered for conceding two howlers against Real Madrid. It later transpired that Karius was concussed and that played a part in those mistakes, but the stigma still follows him round.
Eddie Howe was yet to make a decision on who would start in goal following Nick Pope's suspension. Karius and Mark Gillespie are the two options available to the Magpies head coach, with Martin Dubravka cup-tied having played two games in the League Cup for Erik Ten Hag's side during his loan spell.
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"It could only happen to Newcastle but we have to deal with it," Shearer told the BBC. "It's not ideal for Newcastle, Nick Pope has not put a foot wrong since he arrived.
"But what an opportunity for Karius to remind everyone he is a capable goalkeeper. A few days ago he couldn't have dreamed of being on the bench never mind being in the team, what an unbelievable opportunity for him.
"It will be tough, but we wish him luck and hope he has the game of his life and walks away with a winner's medal. Do I think Newcastle are good enough? Yes, I do. Bruno [Guimaraes] is back, which is a big plus.
"What will give Newcastle hope is if you look at Manchester United's form, particularly against Leicester, Leicester could've had two or three goals so hopefully that will be positive for Newcastle."
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