Alan Shearer is feeling the nerves as Newcastle prepare to defend their 2-0 advantage against Arsenal in the Carabao Cup semi-final.
While the Magpies stunned the Gunners in the first leg at the Emirates, their recent form has left Shearer uneasy.
Arsenal, fresh off a dominant 5-1 victory over Manchester City, are in top form, while Newcastle suffered a frustrating 2-1 defeat to Fulham at home.
Despite their cup advantage, Shearer believes an early Arsenal goal could completely shift the momentum.
Speaking on The Rest is Football podcast, Shearer admitted:
“Very twitchy. The one thing we don’t want is Arsenal to score early because I would bet the tension around the ground will be off the charts. It definitely would concern me.”
He pointed to Newcastle’s struggles at home, recalling their recent 4-1 loss to Bournemouth and lackluster performance against Fulham.
However, he remains confident that Newcastle will approach the game with their trademark high-energy pressing style rather than sitting back to defend their lead.
“Newcastle’s game is at their best when they’re full on energy, closing down, not giving the opposition any space.
Playing on the front foot, particularly at St. James’ Park down the hill. It’s not going to be straightforward.”
Arsenal’s recent history suggests they could pose a real threat early on, having scored seven first-half goals in their last six matches.
But Shearer remains hopeful, stating he would happily sacrifice Newcastle’s league form if it meant winning this game and lifting the trophy at Wembley.
The big question now: Can Newcastle hold firm, or will Arsenal’s firepower flip the script?