LEE NOVAK heads home tonight ready for anything Newcastle can throw at him.
Town’s Geordie striker has been looking forward to the Carling Cup second-round showdown at St James’ Park (7.45) ever since the draw was made.
The 20-year-old former Gateshead goal ace played the pain game when the sides clashed in a fiery pre-season friendly, ending up with a cut chin after a clash with Toon’s Argentinian defender Fabricio Coloccini.
Town lost that match 1-0, and now he’s desperate to turn the tables and test the loyalties of his family and friends, the bulk of whom are avid Newcastle fans, in a tie decided on the night.
“I couldn’t believe it when the draw came out,” said Novak, who is hoping for a return to the starting line-up.
“Myself and a few of the lads had been talking about exactly that possibility earlier in the day and I thought they were taking the mickey when the text messages started to come in.
“I had to double check on the television before I believed it, but it’s a fantastic draw for me, for the manager and for all the staff who have connections up there.
“It’s extra special because I’m a lifelong fan, my family are all season-ticket holders and I’ve never played at St James’ Park before.
“Newcastle would have to build a new stand if I was to get tickets for everyone who has asked me, and it’s a great feeling to know we are taking them on.
“Hopefully I’ll be able to get in the team or at least on the pitch at some stage and help us win the game.
“It was tremendous to play them in pre-season at the Galpharm, but to be facing them again in a proper competitive match is something different again.”
Town – who will lose Tom Clarke for three months because he has had cartilage knee surgery – are set to have a 4,000-strong backing against Chris Hughton’s Championship challengers, who could have Joey Barton back.
The 21-year-old Clarke had an operation yesterday to repair torn cartilage and manager Lee Clark said: “He has been absolutely magnificent for us this season and his loss is a huge blow.
“I’m gutted for Tom as a person because his attitude has been truly top drawer.”
