Eddie Howe names the player that could save Newcastle United ‘a fortune’ in the transfer window

Eddie Howe believes Lewis Miley has “all the attributes he needs” to break into Newcastle United’s first-team in the near future. The 17-year-old signed his first professional contract this week - 10 years after joining the club’s academy.

The midfielder has regularly trained with Howe’s side this season and made his debut during the 5-0 win over Al Hilal in December. A week later, he then featured against La Liga side Rayo Vallecano in front of 34,000 fans at St James’ Park.

In February, Miley was named on the bench for the Magpies’ Premier League visit to Bournemouth. Indeed, the teenager is extremely highly-rated nationally having earned 10 caps for England under-17s.

“I believe in that so much [the academy],” Howe said. “It’s hugely important. I’m in a difficult position because I can only promote players through the academy that I feel are good enough to play in the Premier League, and that’s such a difficult journey to go on.”

Miley is one of those youngsters Howe sees huge potential in, and the Magpies’ head coach hopes many more will emerge from the academy and help “save a fortune” in the transfer market.

“Lewis has got an amazing chance to do that at his age - he’s got all the attributes he needs,” Howe continued. “He needs a little bit of luck and continue on the path he’s on with the great work he’s already done.

“I’d love there to be a few more that will save us a fortune in the transfer market if we can produce more on a consistent basis.”

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