By Matthew Jones
October 29 2003

Newcastle United are under strict instructions to make sure that there are no slip-ups when as the face West Brom in Wednesday's Carling Cup tie. Newcastle are expecting a 40,000 crowd for the visit of the First Division Baggies' to St James' Park tonight and will be going flat out for a victory. Newcastle United are under strict instructions to make sure that there are no slip-ups when as the face West Brom in Wednesday's Carling Cup tie.

The Magpies failed to qualify for the Champions League proper which has caused thier attitude towards the domestic cup competition to change.

Newcastle are expecting a 40,000 crowd for the visit of the First Division Baggies' to St James' Park tonight and will be going flat out for a victory.

Robson said: "The West Bromwich game is an important one for us.

"Although I was disappointed to lose to Everton in the Worthington Cup at this stage last season, I always knew I would not be too upset if we went on to the second stage of the Champions League because we've had a lot of games and this proved to be the case.

"But it's fair to say that things are a little different this season and we really want to do well in this competition. I have spoken to the players and make no mistake about it, they are fully aware of the importance of the game.

"And not only that, but they are also fully aware of what our public expects from them."

Robson is expecting to rest one or two players with Steve Harper replacing Shay Given in goal and Lomana LuaLua getting a chance to start alongside Shearer upfront.

However, Robson added: "I have not picked the team to lose and I will be very angry if we do. If we did it would be reflected in the team I select to play against Aston Villa here on Saturday."

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