Former Manchester United defender Paul Parker believes Newcastle United are the 'better team' ahead of a potential Carabao Cup final showdown. Both teams picked up away victories in their semi-final first leg ties, with the Magpies holding a one-goal lead over Southampton ahead of the return clash at St James' Park.
Joelinton scored the only goal of the game at St Mary's on Tuesday night, and Newcastle have a free weekend ahead of the second leg on January 31. Manchester United could lie in wait for either the Magpies or the Saints at Wembley, with Erik Ten Hag's side recording a 3-0 win against Nottingham Forest the following night.
Newcastle currently sit above the Red Devils in the Premier League table on goal difference, although the latter hold a game in hand. Parker believes the top-four rivals will meet in the Carabao Cup final, and reckons Eddie Howe's side could hold the edge despite Manchester United being considered the favourites for the trophy.
READ MORE: Eddie Howe's message as Newcastle United home in on first major final since 1999
The pundit told Apostagolos: “I think that Man United and Newcastle are going to face each other in the final and it will be a tough nut to crack for Man United. Man United will be made the favourites to win the Carabao Cup because of the history of the club.
"The media will say that Man United should win this cup but Newcastle are in fact the better team if you are looking at form. Newcastle very rarely concede goals and they never lose a game. They are a very tough opponent for every team in this country.
“But of course, Man United are able to win the game and they should play with the strongest line-up possible. Erik ten Hag needs this trophy as it will really help him and Man United in terms of rejuvenating this club and bring it back to life.”
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