‘Real potential’: Eddie Howe says ‘outstanding’ Newcastle player has now ‘earned’ his trust

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Newcastle United beat Manchester City on Wednesday night, and they did it by making 10 changes.

While it was not a full strength Man City side for the Carabao Cup, the Newcastle team was even further away from their strongest XI.

Eddie Howe gave some youngsters a chance, with Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall starting for the first time since their summer moves to Tyneside. Livramento was particularly impressive and won the Player Of The Match award.

And there was also a first Toon start for 17-year-old Lewis Miley, who was making just his second ever senior appearance for the club.

The teenager was outstanding in pre-season and deserved a chance in the cup, but was part of a Newcastle team that really struggled in the first half.

The Magpies could not get close to Man City, with Pep Guardiola’s side completely dominating possession.

Howe made changes at half time, one of which saw Miley replaced by Bruno Guimaraes. The Brazilian was massively influential, and helped Newcastle storm towards victory on a blustery night inside St James’ Park.

It was a dream result, but not a dream performance from Miley. However, his manager has been full of praise following his first ever senior start.

Eddie Howe trusts ‘outstanding’ Lewis Miley

After the win against Manchester City, Howe spoke to BBC Newcastle. He was asked about Lewis Miley’s involvement.

“I thought it was a tough half for us,” he said.

“But that will be a brilliant experience for Lewy. Sometimes you can have a debut that goes perfectly, and that’s great. But sometimes you’re going to have a debut that shows you the challenges of the level you’re playing.

“That’s no reflection on his performance but that’s what he faced tonight. And sometimes you grow more from that than you do the other way round.

“He’s a player of outstanding talent and real potential. That’s why I trusted him to play today. I don’t just give opportunities for the sake of it. He earned it and he’ll grow from it.”

First of many Newcastle United starts for Lewis Miley

As Howe says, Miley will learn from that experience.

He did not really do anything wrong against Man City. He kept the ball well when he could get on it, which was rare.

But Newcastle in general were poor in the first half. Miley did not have much influence, but neither did the £55million man Sandro Tonali who was alongside him.

The fact that Howe started Miley is testament to his ability. As he says, he doesn’t just hand out opportunities.

Miley earned his, and last night will be the first of many starts in a black and white shirt. It will have been a proud night for him and his family.