It appears to be one of the most asked questions within the fanbase at the moment across pubs and clubs on Tyneside, quite simply, what would you prefer?
Seeing Newcastle walk up the steps at Wembley and hoist the League Cup in the air, or have the Champions League anthem ringing around St James' Park next autumn?
The smart answer of course is BOTH but the case to lift a trophy is a strong one as it will deliver European football next season anyway, albeit not in the Champions League. The experience for fans, seeing the domestic trophy drought which goes back to 1955 end, the open top bus parade and all the excitement in the city it will generate are all the big plus points.
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For some it is a no-brainer, winning a cup is what it's all about and for many it ranks ahead of getting into the Champions League. Then there is the case for Europe's top table.
The money for winning the League Cup is small beer compared to the Champions League riches. For starters in the Champions League teams pick up £13.48m, while group wins are worth £2.4m and it's £802,000 for a draw while there is £73.49m on offer to the team that goes all the way.
European away days are obviously better with the chance to possibly go to Serie A and La Liga top grounds. And the Champions League games take place on a Wednesday nights.
If Newcastle end up in the Europa Conference League they will be playing Thursday nights meaning tired bodies and Sunday afternoon games that might not be on TV. For all that, it was good enough for AS Roma last season and Jose Mourinho didn't shirk the challenge.
More unusual Euro trips are expected for the Europa Conference too with West Ham heading to Romania and Denmark this season alone. The truth is, Newcastle fans never expected to be faced with such a dilemma and whatever happens this season there are good vibes as the club are simply competition again - all that anybody ever really asked.
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