Ahead of the final Carabao Cup quarter-final between Tottenham and Manchester United, Sky Sports’ writers compile the reasons why each need a victory to continue their hopes of silverware.
Quarter-final draw and results
Wednesday December 18
Thursday December 19
- Tottenham vs Manchester United – 8pm kick-off – live on Sky Sports Football and the Sky Sports app
Amorim can walk in the footsteps of his predecessors with Carabao Cup victory
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
WHAT A FINISH! Highlights from the astonishing Premier League match between Manchester City and Manchester United
Ruben Amorim has constantly reiterated the need for time and patience but like all fanbases, onlookers will start to grow restless in their desire to see their team lift silverware. It would be harsh to judge Amorim on his early trophy prospects having been named the United boss in November, however, it feels like a pressure that Amorim will want to embrace.
Erik ten Hag claimed the Carabao Cup at the first time of asking but was constantly questioned about the identity of his side, failing to instil a discernible style over his years at the club. Hoping to steer United into a new era, Amorim will perhaps be judged more on how quickly his team can adapt to his philosophy in the short to medium term rather than silverware but that does not mean the Carabao Cup presents an opportunity to begin his reign in the best way possible.
Jose Mourinho, a mentor for Amorim, also claimed the Carabao Cup in his first season at Old Trafford. A four-time winner of the competition, Mourinho recognised the importance of the first trophy win to set the tone for the season going forward. A win at Tottenham will give Amorim the chance to follow the tried and tested example of his predecessor.
William Bitibiri
Spurs must set up successful season with Man Utd win
Ange Postecoglou always wins silverware in his second season. How Tottenham fans would love that streak to continue and see their long wait for a trophy finally come to an end this term.
The Europa League and FA Cup are possibilities but this opportunity, to reach the Carabao Cup semi-finals with victory against a beatable Manchester United at home, cannot be passed up.
Thursday 19th December 7:00pm
Kick off 8:00pm
Spurs’ thrashing of Southampton was timely, busting a five-game winless run. But a statement win at home – where they have gone four frustrating fixtures in a row without success – could shift the mood significantly back onto a more positive footing.
Of course, defeat could swing it the other way – and with Liverpool coming to town on Sunday, this is looking like it could be a defining week in terms of where Spurs’ season is going.
Peter Smith
Watch on your phone via the Sky Sports app
Sky Sports subscribers can:
- Download or Open the Sky Sports app
- Head to the ‘Watch’ section
- Tap on the match
- Sign in with your Sky iD (*you’ll only need to do this once)
*Sky iD help: How to find or create your Sky iD
NOT a Sky subscriber? Watch on NOW
For instant, contract-free access to all Sky Sports channels, non-Sky subscribers can purchase a NOW Sports Day or Month Membership.
This includes every single live Sky Sports+ stream and on demand catch-up content.
