Mamma Mia! Magpies’ last EFL Cup final 47 years ago

ABBA’S Mamma Mia hit No.1, Harold Wilson was PM, petrol cost 77p per gallon and Geordies could buy a pint in the Bigg Market for just 31p.

The nation had just delivered a resounding yes to staying in Europe in a referendum and Supermac was banging in goals at St James’ Park.

Yes, it has been a long, long time since Newcastle were at Wembley for a League Cup final.

They ended up losing to Manchester City with Magpies fan Dennis Tueart scoring one of the best goals the old stadium had ever seen.

The competition has hardly been kind in the 47 years since, with tough draws, poor performances or – in the Mike Ashley years – plain disinterest condemning them to early exits.

Much has changed since the Toon Army, resplendent in tank tops and flared jeans, invaded the capital in 1976, with Abba (above) topping the chart. But then again, everything feels different.

Whatever the rights and wrongs of the Saudi ownership, today’s Newcastle feels like a new club.

Eddie Howe’s team have become serial winners and in the likely event of them facing Manchester United later this month, the hordes will flock to Wembley with expectancy and not just hope in their hearts.

The Toon boss had played a blinder before this game, insisting Southampton remained a threat, despite Joelinton’s goal at St Mary’s giving an advantage at kick-off.

Sean Longstaff’s double within 21 minutes banished any doubt that this would be a tense, nervy affair.

And even the ultra-professional Howe allowed himself a clenched fist salute when the midfielder opened up a three-goal aggregate lead.

Not even the rare sight of Che Adams scoring past Nick Pope for the first goal conceded on home soil in almost nine hours could spoil the fun.

The Geordie nation were already in party-mode and, boy, did they celebrate!