Local hero Burn shines as he propels Newcastle towards glory following England selection

Despite the hefty millions Newcastle United has poured into acquiring a diverse range of international talent since being taken over by Saudi Arabian investors in 2021, it was Dan Burn, a local lad from Blyth, who emerged as the unlikely hero on Sunday, bringing an end to decades of disappointment.

Bruno Guimaraes, the Brazilian captain, was a driving force in the exhilarating 2-1 victory over Liverpool in the League Cup final, while fellow countryman Joelinton threw himself into tackles as if possessed.

Italian midfielder Sandro Tonali displayed remarkable finesse, and Sweden’s Alexander Isak netted his 24th goal of a stellar season that has seen him gain cult status akin to that of the club’s legendary strikers.

However, it was the pivotal moment when 32-year-old central defender Burn connected with a corner to score a thunderous header, putting Newcastle ahead just before halftime, that would define a historic final, securing the club’s first piece of domestic silverware since 1955.

Having developed in Newcastle’s youth system, Burn’s journey included stints at Darlington, Fulham, Yeovil Town, Birmingham City, Wigan Athletic, and Brighton & Hove Albion before he returned to the struggling Magpies in 2022. Manager Eddie Howe hailed him as “colossal” following this fairytale week.

“I’ve had worse weeks. I don’t want to go to sleep because I feel like I’m dreaming and it’s all going to be a lie,” said Burn, who received his first England call-up on Friday and scored his first goal of the season on Sunday.

“I don’t score often, so I saved it for a big occasion.”

Burn noted that there wouldn’t be much time for celebration. “I’ll be there first thing tomorrow at eight o’clock,” he mentioned, referring to joining the camp of new England manager Thomas Tuchel.

Howe took the helm soon after the Saudi Public Investment Fund’s takeover, with discussions revolving around the trophies that newfound wealth might bring. However, his immediate goal was to ensure the club’s survival in the Premier League.

Under Howe’s leadership, Newcastle qualified for last season’s Champions League, but a defeat to Manchester United in the 2023 League Cup final extended their wait for domestic silverware to 70 years.

Had they suffered their 10th consecutive defeat at Wembley, it would have been a devastating blow for both Newcastle and their passionate Toon Army. Instead, Howe’s side put in a comprehensive performance against a celebrated Liverpool team that has been dominating the Premier League.

“It’s a fantastic moment, and that’s what it’s all about,” Howe stated, soaked in beer by his jubilant players. “You have so many tough days in football, and this club has endured its fair share over the years.”

“I’m just thrilled that the fans have this trophy to celebrate after such a long wait, and hopefully, we can bring home more in the future.”

“Today, we earned it the best way possible; we faced an exceptional team who have been miles ahead in the Premier League all season and, for me, we were the superior side.”

Regarding Burn’s historic goal for Newcastle, their first at Wembley in 25 years, Howe remarked: “What a week it has been for him! His performance today was colossal at the back, and that header was simply incredible.”

“It’s incredibly fitting that he scored that goal after such a long wait for a Wembley goal.”

For a complete match report from Wembley, click here.