ARSENAL legend Paul Merson has revealed who he thinks will win the Carabao Cup, with a "shock" reason behind his claim.
Newcastle take on Manchester United in Sunday's final, with both clubs looking to end trophy droughts and kickstart a new era of success.
Erik ten Hag's Man Utd have form on their side, having won seven of their last nine games, including a 2-1 comeback victory against Barcelona.
Meanwhile, Eddie Howe's outfit have failed to win in any of their last three games.
However, form is not the key factor for Merson, rather player availability is.
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Speaking to Sportskeeda, he explained: "If there was one player Eddie Howe couldn’t afford to miss in this final, it would be Nick Pope. He has won them so many points this season.
"I’d be shocked if Newcastle won this one without Pope in goal. He is that big for Newcastle United. Unfortunately, he is suspended and that’s going to cost Newcastle dearly.
"When they’re keeping clean sheets, Pope is making big saves. Off the top of my head, in the draw against Arsenal, he made a world-class save to deny Eddie Nketiah."
Pope became suspended for the final after receiving a straight red card for handling the ball outside of his area.
And with No2 Martin Dubravka cup-tied due to playing in the tournament for the Red Devils earlier in the season, it means Loris Karius or Mark Gillespie will don the gloves for the Magpies.
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Merson added: "Manchester United are going to create chances and they are going to score goals.
"Put [Marcus] Rashford down for one goal already. He is playing so well that you’ll be shocked if he doesn’t score in this game.
"United are the team to beat in the final. Newcastle United are not a free-scoring side. They don’t blow teams away.
"If they don’t score two or three goals, they are not winning this one. I just don’t see them doing that against United on Sunday.
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"For me, the Magpies are desperate to win a trophy more than getting into the top four and these players can attain legendary status if they win silverware.
"Unfortunately, it looks unlikely that will happen. I’m going 2-1 to Man United."
While Merson is backing a United victory, it may not come about with any involvement from Marcus Rashford.
The 25-year-old, who has scored 24 goals this season, is now a doubt for the final after picking up an injury in the match against Barcelona.
