Newcastle's two star forwards were on the scoresheet as they secured a commanding first-leg advantage over Arsenal

Newcastle moved a step closer to a first major domestic trophy since 1955 with a 2-0 victory over Arsenal in the first leg of the English League Cup semifinals.

Eddie Howe has indicated that Alexander Isak came off early due to a hamstring concern during the 2-0 win over Arsenal. The £63million man netted the opener in the first half and set up the second after a venomous shot. With no other senior striker on the bench, Howe has had to push Isak through the pain barrier in recent weeks.