So it will be Manchester United versus Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley three weeks on Sunday, as if that scenario was ever in any serious doubt last night. A proper final between two clubs for whom lifting this trophy really would mean something.
Newcastle fans don’t need reminding that their club haven’t won a major domestic trophy in 68 years. For Manchester United, the drought is only six years, but that still feels far too long for a club of this size.
A trophy is not only long overdue for United but also hugely important in terms of validating the progress Erik ten Hag has made since he took over at Old Trafford in the summer.