Sandro Tonali scored twice as Newcastle moved into the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup with a comfortable victory over Brentford at St James’ Park.
The Italy midfielder, who returned this season from a 10-month ban for breaching betting rules, drove in an early opener for the hosts after Tino Livramento’s cross was only partially cleared.
With Eddie Howe fielding arguably the strongest side at his disposal, the former AC Milan player added a second just before the break with a cushioned side-foot volley from Anthony Gordon’s corner from the right.
When visiting goalkeeper Mark Flekken was unable to hold on to Lewis Hall’s low effort Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes laid on a tap-in for Fabian Schar to put the gloss on a much-deserved win.
It proved a disappointing evening for Brentford who mustered just two shots on target until Yoanne Wissa prodded in a late consolation in added time.
Prior to that Newcastle had twice struck the woodwork as Jacob Murphy, Alexander Isak, Gordon and substitute Harvey Barnes all failed to convert good opportunities to inflict even more punishment on their lacklustre opponents.
Thomas Frank’s team were not helped by losing Sepp van den Berg in the warm-up and then seeing their captain and fellow centre-back Ethan Pinnock limp off inside 15 minutes.
However, the Dane will still likely be dissatisfied by the manner of their defeat, with his side barely offering any resistance as their woeful record on their travels continued.
The semi-final draw will take place on Thursday evening after Tottenham’s quarter-final tie with Manchester United (20:00 GMT) concludes.
