Published on 19.12.2023
Eddie Howe has been careful not to let the excitement surrounding Lewis Miley get out of control ever since the 17-year-old impressed everyone with his exceptional performance in their 4-1 victory over Chelsea last month.
His teammate, Bruno Guimares, only added fuel to the fire. “Lewis is a phenomenal talent,” he exclaimed to reporters after witnessing the young player’s remarkable display up close. “When I was 17, if I may be blunt, I was terrible.”
Howe couldn’t disregard such high praise for long – Miley remains grounded despite all the attention. Just four days later in Paris, he once again demonstrated both skill and maturity that perfectly complemented his growing potential, which Newcastle has been nurturing for quite some time.
Lewis Miley's memorable moment ✨ pic.twitter.com/wSZwLXcL5X
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) December 16, 2023
Since then, neither Miley nor his club have looked back. He continued to shine in a standout performance against Manchester United and even provided his first assist in the Champions League match against Milan last week – despite their defeat.
Even when Sean Longstaff relegated him back to the bench during Saturday’s match against Fulham due to Joelinton’s injury early on, Miley seized yet another opportunity to make an impression. And once again, he delivered with great success.
Just a day before, safeguarding officers had been conducting their routine check-ins to ensure that Miley, who is under 18 years old, was doing well in the lively dressing room of the Premier League. This probably didn’t take much time.
Longstaff, arguably the last successful product of the Newcastle academy, commented on this situation saying: “The most amusing part about it is that he’s so young. It’s crazy how one day you’re checking if he’s fine and the next day he becomes the best player on the field.”
Newcastle is one of those few clubs that truly appreciate their own players. The statues of Jackie Milburn, Sir Bobby Robson, and Alan Shearer outside St James’ Park are clear evidence of this fact. However, generating excitement is one thing; living up to it is another challenge altogether. Especially when you won’t even turn 18 until May.
That first goal on his debut will always be a memorable moment for him. But what has really earned both Howe and Newcastle supporters’ trust in Miley is his ability to stay composed and show quality with every touch on the ball.
