Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe wants his players to put thoughts of League Cup glory to one side - for now.
The Magpies were pitted against Southampton for the two-legged League Cup semi-final later this month but must first face up to both Fulham on Sunday then Crystal Palace away next Saturday night. And Howe knows that staying in the shake up for a European place must take the priority for his players.
Reflecting on the semi-final draw, after the Saints dumped Manchester City out of the competition, Howe said: "It's a tough game, but we're just pleased to be in it. "It's a two-legged semi-final, so we're looking forward to that.
READ MORE: Newcastle transfer strategy that will benefit the Magpies beyond January
"It's on the horizon for us, and I think it's given us a lot of positivity, and hopefully the whole club and the supporters a lot of positivity as well. But at the moment, our focus now turns to the Premier League."
Fulham head to Tyneside on the back of excellent form with a midweek win over Chelsea setting them up nicely for the clash at St James' Park.
Howe knows how tough an occasion it will on Sunday afternoon and reflected: "I think Marco Silva has done a very, very good job with the team. I'm very impressed with the style of play. They're not getting results by anything other than (being) a very cohesive team unit, playing a lot of really good football.
"Tactically, they're very interesting, and they've got players in form so they're a dangerous opponent from our perspective. I think it will be a good test of our defensive capabilities, with two very good teams - and form teams - going at it."
READ NEXT
Alexander Isak makes it clear what his best position is for Newcastle United
Reality of a Newcastle United squad never built to fight on three fronts
Alexander Isak lifts lid on 'complications' during Newcastle United injury comeback
Kieran Trippier excited by Newcastle United owners' plans for 2023
Newcastle United warn off queue of clubs wanting to take Elliot Anderson on loan
