TRANMERE Rovers defender Jordan Turnbull is looking forward to testing himself against Premier League opposition as Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United prepare to head for Prenton Park in round two of the Carabao Cup.

Howe’s side gave notice that they are a growing force in football in Sunday’s thrilling 3-3 draw with Manchester City but Turnbull believes Wednesday evening could be another in a long line of cup upsets pulled off over the years by Rovers.

“There are shocks in every round and hopefully we can be that shock,” said Turnbull. “We will have to go out there and be at our absolute best and make sure everyone is pulling in the same direction and winning their battles throughout the game.

“We know how good they are and how well they’ve come on in terms of their position in the Premier League.

“I watched them against Manchester City, who are arguably the best team in the world. They’re getting better and better every week.”

Rovers’ own form has been mixed this season with just one win from their first five league games and while they continue to struggle away from Wirral, Turnbull believes the Prenton Park faithful will have a crucial role to play in a game which will be televised live by Sky.

“To sell out the home crowd would be fantastic for us,” he said. “With a lot of fans turning up, it will be a great day. All of the players know they’re playing live on Sky which is another big occasion for the boys.

“These are the games you want to be a part of. We have these draws and cup competitions which is fantastic for us players and we get to draw against the Premier League giants. That’s why we’re all excited.”

The 27-year-old, who joined Rovers from Salford City in the summer, also hopes the game will give him a chance of testing himself against the likes of Allan Saint-Maximin and Miguel Almirón.

“Playing against better players is only going to improve you,” he added. “For myself as a defender, they’ve got top quality at the top end of the pitch so to test myself against that is exactly what you want to do.”