Tottenham manager Thomas Frank criticised referee Chris Kavanagh after Newcastle scored in their Carabao Cup fourth-round tie while Spurs defender Djed Spece was tying his laces.
Nick Woltemade's second-half header wrapped up a 2-0 win, sparked by Fabian Schar’s controversial 24th-minute opener, to leave the home contingent among a crowd of 51,216 at St James' Park dreaming of a return to Wembley.
Schar’s goal came after Spence’s boot came off as Newcastle won a corner, and the defender needed time to adjust his laces so that he could fit his boot back on.
Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali went over to take the corner and initially allowed Spence some time to get ready, but as soon as the defender was back on his feet, the ball was whipped into the box for Schar to head home.
The Spurs players were furious with referee Kavanagh on the field, and Frank discussed the matter with the official after the game.
🗣️ "I feel that the referee should have given him a little more time to get in"
— Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) October 29, 2025
🗣️ "I think it's harsh on Spurs"
Jobi McAnuff shares his thoughts on Spurs complaining about Newcastle's first goal because Djed Spence was tying his shoelaces 💭 pic.twitter.com/so9qCuUAaj
“It is always disappointing to lose, always disappointing to go out of the tournament that we would love to progress in,” Frank told BBC Radio 5 Live.
“Small margins decided the game tonight, it was a very even game with chances and situations in both boxes. The two goals were also small margins where there was two mistakes – one unfortunately from Chris Kavanagh, in terms of things you need to give. Djed Spence had his boot off. He needs time to tie his boot and he didn’t. His marker, Schar, scored.
“I have spoken to Chris about it, and we will keep that between Chris and I.”
Newcastle will be at home to Fulham in the quarter-finals.
Premier League leaders Arsenal will host Crystal Palace, while third-tier Cardiff City, the only non-Premier League team to make the last eight, will host Chelsea. Manchester City, who have hoisted the League Cup eight times, host Brentford.
The last-eight games will take place on the week of 15 December.
Liverpool were dispatched by Crystal Palace 3-0 in Wednesday’s fourth-round tie.
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