Evertonians already know what awaits if David Moyes’ side can overcome Newcastle United tonight, with a trip to Fleetwood Town secured for the winners of the fourth-round tie at the Hill Dickinson.
For Everton, the draw has presented a significant opportunity. Newcastle remain a substantial hurdle, but victory would leave League Two opposition standing between the Blues and a place in the Carabao Cup semi-finals.
Fleetwood waiting at Highbury
Fleetwood ensured their name was in the quarter-final draw by producing one of the competition’s shocks against Arsenal. Matt Lawlor’s side knocked out the reigning Premier League champions on penalties at Highbury, providing Everton with ample warning of what could await on the Fylde coast.
That result also underlines why Moyes’ side cannot take anything for granted should they progress. Before Fleetwood can become a serious consideration, Everton must negotiate a Newcastle side with considerable recent pedigree in this competition.
The attraction of the draw is nevertheless obvious. Everton have made no secret of their desire for a meaningful cup run this season, with Merlin Röhl saying this week that the Carabao Cup is a competition the squad have had their “eye on”. (evertonfc.com)
There is still loads to do at the Hill Dickinson first, but the route beyond tonight is unusually clear. Beat Newcastle and Everton will head to ‘Highbury’ knowing one more victory would put them into the Carabao Cup semi-finals.
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