On the day that he makes his TalkSPORT debut, Jeff Stelling has praised a Newcastle United player who was not even born when the broadcaster kicked off his Sky Sports career.
Back in 1994, Jeff Stelling began hosting Sky Sports’ Sports Saturday. On the day that he retired in May 2023, a teenager by the name of Lewis Miley was making his senior debut for Newcastle United.
Stelling left his post at Sky at the end of last season, which was when Miley got to taste senior football for the first time at the age of 17. He came off the bench during a 1-1 draw with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
Now Miley is enjoying an extended run in the Newcastle side, with injuries and suspension forcing Eddie Howe to turn to the teenager.
The youngster has started Newcastle’s previous four games, and he has not looked out of place despite being so young.
Miley is a star of the future, but he is already delivering in the present. He was outstanding during the Champions League draw with PSG, while he excelled once again on Saturday as the Magpies beat Manchester United.
It is a joy to watch Miley right now, and Stelling simply cannot believe just how young he is.
Jeff Stelling seriously impressed by Lewis Miley
Stelling has spoke about Miley on the TalkSPORT Breakfast show (December 4th) alongside Ally McCoist, expressing his disbelief at how good he is for his age.
“Lewis Miley, 17. Goodness me. How can he be 17 years of age?,” he said.
McCoist replied: “Incredible, it’s incredible.”
Newcastle teenager looks wise beyond his years
Stelling’s assessment pretty much up how everyone feels about Miley. When he is playing, it does not feel like you are watching a 17-year-old. The only thing that gives him away is his babyface!
But on the pitch he is mature. He plays with confidence, believing in his ability as he shares the stage with Brazil internationals and World Cup semi finalists.
Miley looks like he belongs at this level, but there is no arrogance in his game either. That is a testament to his character, as most people would probably have a bit of a chip on their shoulder if they were that good at something at the age of 17.
But Miley appears to be level-headed, and it has helped him contribute to a momentous week for Newcastle United. It should have been three huge wins from three, only for that last-minute penalty decision to rob us of victory in Paris.
It truly is incredible to watch this Newcastle team, and it is even more special to see us thrive with local lads like Miley. The sky is the limit for him, as he has already proven that he can handle himself up against the best.
Unbelievable, Jeff!
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