Anthony Gordon was blanked by Eddie Howe as he left the field following his stupid red card against Brighton & Hove Albion.

The Scouser was sent for an early bath after a two-handed shove on Jan Paul van Hecke at the Gallowgate End. As he tried to protest his innocence to fourth official Andy Madley, even he must have known his Carabao Cup final dream had gone just two years after missing out last time around after being cup-tied for the 2023 affair with Man United shortly after his £45million move from Everton.

Howe did not want to look at Gordon as he walked off the pitch but said afterwards to reporters: "I was so absorbed in the game. My focus was on trying to win the game. Of course if that is the case, I'm desperately disappointed for him and for the team."

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The incident is similar to the build-up to Wembley two years ago when Nick Pope was sent off against Liverpool for another moment of madness, albeit with less aggression. Pope missed the 2-0 loss that day and nobody knows whether his presence may have won or lost Newcastle the game.

The same applies to Gordon now, but Newcastle's chances have arguably been dashed for the Liverpool game given they are without their second top scorer with the ex-Toffee having nine goals to his name for Wembley.

So much for lightning not striking twice eh? Don't forget it was Taylor who sent off Pope two years ago as well.

Danny Welbeck gets the last laugh at St James' Park

The former Sunderland striker was jeered when he came on for the last 10 minutes of normal time before pouncing to score the winner. As the former Stadium of Light loanee walked off the pitch a Newcastle fan screamed: "Mackem" in his direction.

To which a smiling Welbeck patted his chest and replied: "Mackem, Mackem." As Welbeck walked off he said: "Somebody gave me stick there because they know I'm a Mackem at heart."

Wembley jitters continue for Eddie Howe's side

The Magpies crashed out of the FA Cup as we move into the last fortnight before Wembley in the Carabao Cup final. Yes, Newcastle beat Southampton in the Premier League away and also recorded a win over Birmingham in the FA Cup to keep the season alive.

But the Brighton loss sits alongside defeats to Liverpool, Fulham and AFC Bournemouth. Newcastle spluttered over the line against Nottingham Forest in a 4-3 win, but they were not so fortunate against the Seagulls.

The form in the build-up to Wembley has been worry and even though first-team stars like Dan Burn say they have "learned" from last time, it's difficult to see.