FA Cup: John Carver defends Newcastle's team selection against Leicester
Friday 9 January 2015 11:59, UK
John Carver insists he "put the strongest team on the pitch" in Newcastle's FA Cup third-round defeat at Leicester.
Carver was criticised by some Newcastle fans for his team selection, which saw players such as Fabricio Coloccini, Jack Colback and Moussa Sissoko absent.
However, Carver has defended his selection insisting that the decision was out of his hands.
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Carver added: “Unfortunately, on the Thursday before the game the doctor told me that there were four or five players unavailable. We played four games in eight days so I have to listen to him – I put the strongest team on the pitch.”
“We’ve now had the FA Cup game and we’re now preparing for Chelsea. Hopefully all those guys who missed out against Leicester will be available.”
Carver also revealed goalkeeper Tim Krul – who has been out since November with an ankle injury – is close to a return.
“Krul is taking part in a behind-closed-door game against Celtic and we’re going to give him at least 45 minutes,” he added.
“If he comes through the game, hopefully he will be available for the weekend.”
