The Carabao Cup clash between Newcastle United and Bradford City on Wednesday will be more than just a game of football.
It will be a reunion for the two managers, Eddie Howe and Graham Alexander, who have a unique and difficult past.
Back in Carabao Cup action tomorrow! 🙌 pic.twitter.com/GmPrOyAutq
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) September 23, 2025
The two men, who will be in opposing dugouts at St. James' Park, were together at Burnley before Alexander, the senior professional, played under a much younger Howe as his manager.
The reunion, which has been widely talked about, highlights a fascinating dynamic.
Alexander, who is six years older than the Newcastle boss, has admitted that he “didn't like him at the time,” while Howe has reflected that he "made some mistakes" in his first managerial stint.
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The challenging relationship at Burnley in 2011
The duo were at Burnley in 2011, with Alexander as the team's captain.
At the time, Howe was a very young manager who wanted to take the team in a "new direction" with younger players.
This left Alexander on the sidelines, and he admitted he "didn't like him at the time" because he didn't start a single game under the new manager.
Howe, who was asked about the comments in a recent press conference, said, "I really like Graham, so that's news to me. Possibly looking back, it was a learning experience for me."
"I didn't play him enough and I should have played him more."
The comments show that both men have reflected on the situation and have since moved on.
What to expect in the Carabao Cup clash
The Carabao Cup clash between Newcastle and Bradford City is set to be a fascinating encounter.
Newcastle are the cup holders but have had a stuttering start to the season, while Bradford, who were recently promoted to League One, are top of their league and have already beaten two Championship teams in the cup.
The Bantams will be looking to cause a major upset at St. James' Park.
Howe has hinted that he will rotate his squad heavily, with key players likely to be rested.
This could provide an opportunity for new signing Will Osula to get a start, while Bradford's hero Andy Cook, a Newcastle United fan himself, will be a likely goal threat.
The match is a classic cup tie, with the potential for a shock result, and all eyes will be on the two managers.
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