Former Newcastle United star hails 'immaculate' Lewis Miley after contract boost

Newcastle United have pulled off a coup by tying down young midfielder Lewis Miley to a long-term contract - according to former Magpies star Steve Howey.

The 17-year-old has enjoyed a remarkable introduction to life at a senior level after breaking into Eddie Howe's first-team setup in recent months. Miley showed flashes of his undoubted potential in United's academy ranks and made his senior bow as a substitute in a 1-1 draw at Chelsea on the final day of last season.

A number of impressive pre-season performances led Howe to insist Newcastle would snub any loan bids for the youngster and ensure the next stage in his development would take place alongside the Magpies senior stars. A first senior start came in the 1-0 Carabao Cup win against Manchester City before Miley was named in a Premier League starting eleven for the first time in a 2-0 loss at Bournemouth just days later.

Further landmarks were met when Miley became the youngest English player to provide an assist in a Champions League fixture when he set up Joelinton to score in a 2-1 home defeat against AC Milan and he became Newcastle's youngest Premier League goalscorer when he found the net in a 3-0 win against Fulham in December. Miley has continued to prove the excitement that followed his progress through United's youth ranks was not without foundation and he has now been rewarded with what Newcastle described as a 'new long-term contract' on Monday.

Former Magpies defender Howey described Miley's impact at the highest level as 'incredible' and believes his old club have pulled off a smart piece of business by tying down their young prospect to a new deal.

He told Sky Sports: “His potential is huge. He’s 17-years-old and there’s players that have been around, very good players, that haven’t got to play in the Champions League. He’s played in the Champions League, he’s sampled that, which is incredible. When he’s come in, in the Champions League, or the Premier League, or cup competitions, he’s handled himself immaculately.

“I think his performances have been outstanding and, we talk about Marcus Rashford, he is a born and bred Newcastle fan, he loves the club and he’s basically living the dream. Yes, the potential is there, you just hope he fulfils it and keeps away from injury. He’s got every chance. I am delighted for the lad that he’s got the contract because it brings him in line with where he should be. It gives him more security as well and it’s a coup for Newcastle - but at the same time he will be delighted with it as well.”