Lewis Miley continues to impress at Newcastle United and has now been compared to an all-time footballing great.
Miley has been one of Newcastle United’s best players this season, both in midfield and in defence.
A spate of defensive injuries have forced the 19-year-old into the right-back role but it does not appear to be a challenge that has daunted him.
If you could go back in time and tell Eddie Howe one thing during his half-time team talk, what would it be?!
Indeed, Miley is in brilliant form for Newcastle, and his performances mean that Eddie Howe’s side are not currently missing Tino Livramento or Kieran Trippier too much.
The teenager was brilliant in Newcastle’s 2-2 draw with Chelsea, so much so that pundit Joe Cole even compared him to Paolo Maldini.
Joe Cole compares Lewis Miley to Paolo Maldini during Newcastle United’s draw with Chelsea
Cole was on duty for TNT Sports during their live coverage of the game at St James’ Park.
After watching Miley deny the hugely expensive Argentina international Alejandro Garnacho much joy, Cole even said that he was reminded of the AC Milan legend.
Maldini is generally regarded as one of the greatest defenders in the history of football, so it’s certainly a big statement.
Speaking during the game, Cole said: “I’m going to throw a name out here, Paolo Maldini defended like that. He looked like, player’s dribbling at him, he was the one that was in control. He knew he had Garnacho’s number there. Fantastic defending.”
Who was Newcastle United’s MOTM against Chelsea?!
Strange to say there are a few choices given the result!
How Lewis Miley is helping Newcastle United avoid a crisis
Livramento is one of Newcastle’s most important players, while Trippier provides quality back-up.
With Emil Krafth also injured, Newcastle faced a defensive crisis.
However, the ease with which Miley has stepped up has been fantastic and has helped settle the situation down somewhat.
Howe hatched a plan to play Miley at right-back and has so far been vindicated.
The Newcastle United manager has faced a lot of criticism this season but credit must be given for his work with Miley there.
At some point, the Newcastle academy star will almost certainly return to his more natural midfield role.
For now, however, Miley is helping Newcastle through their injury issues.
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