‘Unbelievable’ wonderkid and two other academy gems Newcastle could unleash in Carabao Cup final

Newcastle United face a significant challenge heading into the Carabao Cup final, as three key players will be absent for the showdown at Wembley.

Confidence had been soaring after the semi-final victory over Arsenal in February, with fans hopeful that this time, the club could bring home silverware for the first time since 1969.

Eddie Howe has made it clear that winning a trophy remains a top priority, especially after last year’s heartbreak against Manchester United. However, recent developments have made this mission considerably more difficult.

The Magpies will be without Lewis Hall and Sven Botman, both sidelined due to injuries requiring surgery. While Hall has been ruled out for the remainder of the season, there is no certainty yet on whether Botman will return before the campaign ends.

Additionally, Anthony Gordon received a red card for violent conduct in the defeat to Brighton, meaning he will miss the final, along with league matches against West Ham and Brentford following the international break. With these absences leaving gaps in key positions, Howe may now need to turn to the club’s under-21 squad for reinforcements.

Dan Burn and Fabian Schar are expected to start at Wembley, but should anything happen before the final, Howe might consider 19-year-old Cathal Heffernan as an option. Signed from AC Milan in 2023, Heffernan played a key role in Newcastle’s UEFA Youth League campaign last season and has impressed in the under-21 squad, featuring in 18 matches across all competitions.

In their most recent game, a 4-1 victory over Stoke, he demonstrated his defensive capabilities once again. Although naturally right-footed, he has shown versatility by operating as a left-sided center-back when needed, making him a suitable replacement for either Burn or Schar.

Heffernan has already been introduced to first-team football, having been named in several matchday squads during last year’s pre-season tour. He also featured in Newcastle’s 4-1 win over Urawa Red Diamonds during their trip to Japan. Given his rapid development, he stands out as a potential backup option for Howe should additional defensive concerns arise.

At left-back, young fullback Leo Shahar has been involved in first-team training, but 18-year-old Dylan Charlton could be the more likely candidate to step up. Charlton has established himself as the primary left-back in the under-21 squad this season, impressing head coach Diarmuid O’Carroll since taking over from Ben Dawson. With the left-back position needing extra depth, there is a strong possibility that Charlton could be called up to train with the senior squad before the final.

The most probable scenario for Wembley is Tino Livramento starting at left-back, with Matt Targett providing cover from the bench. However, if circumstances require further reinforcements, Charlton could be considered as an emergency option.

Like Heffernan, he was part of the first-team squad during pre-season and even started in the youthful lineup that suffered an 8-0 defeat against the A-League All-Stars last May. This exposure to senior football, despite the result, has given him valuable experience.

Another young player who could benefit from the current situation is Garang Kuol. After struggling with two unsuccessful loan spells, Kuol has remained with Newcastle’s under-21 squad this season, where he has finally started to flourish.

The young attacker has been a key player in 2025, contributing two goals and two assists in the Premier League 2 while also impressing in the National League Cup campaign. His recent performance in the win over Stoke caught the attention of Newcastle fans, with some calling for him to be given a first-team opportunity.

Kuol’s experience on big stages also adds to his appeal. He was part of Australia’s 2022 World Cup squad, facing world-class opponents like Lionel Messi, which has undoubtedly helped his development.

With Gordon suspended, Howe may look to Harvey Barnes or Joelinton to fill the void, but a spot on the bench could open up for Kuol. His ability to make an impact in the final third and his growing confidence at the under-21 level could make him a valuable wildcard option.

Newcastle’s injury and suspension setbacks have complicated their plans for the Carabao Cup final, but the situation also presents an opportunity for young talent to step up.

The club’s academy prospects have shown promise, and if called upon, they will be eager to make their mark on one of the biggest stages. Howe’s ability to adapt to these challenges will be crucial in determining whether Newcastle can overcome adversity and bring home long-awaited silverware.