Newcastle United manager Steve McClaren has warned his players to be cautious to the threat of another early cup exit this week.

The Magpies take on Northampton Town in the second round of the League Cup on Tuesday night.

After struggling to make any sort of impact in cup competitions in recent times, McClaren wants to use the tie as a chance to "boost" Newcastle's prospects for the season.

"Northampton are a good team who are strong," he told reporters. "In football, any team on their day can beat anyone.

"If we're not right, they will hurt us. The cups can be a great boost for you. Nobody wants to lose a football match. We have to do a professional job."

Newcastle have picked up two points from their opening three Premier League games this campaign.