Newcastle United did not have a vintage night in the Champions League on Tuesday.
Borussia Dortmund beat Eddie Howe’s side for the second time in as many games, leaving Newcastle with a mountain to climb in the group.
Though the visitors have not exactly been outplayed in any of their European games this season, it looked like one game too many for this injury-depleted squad.
Indeed, Howe was forced to deploy Tino Livramento out of position and couldn’t even fill his bench with substitutes, such are the lack of available bodies.
Livramento certainly impressed which is promising and there was another pleasing sight even in defeat.
Lewis Miley became the youngest player to represent Newcastle in the Champions League in his first senior club appearance of the season.
Lewis Miley: Newcastle star responds to Champions League debut
Taking to Instagram after the game, the 17-year-old wrote an emotional message.
“Not the result we wanted last night, support was top as always,” he posted.
“On a personal note it was a proud moment for me and my family, making my Champions League debut.”
Newcastle injuries: Chance for Miley
Highly rated for his performances during pre-season, it’s been a shame that Miley hasn’t been able to play much of a part due to glandular fever.
Still, if there’s anything positive to come out of Newcastle’s injury crisis then it is surely the chance it affords young players.
Livramento has certainly taken his chance and run with it and perhaps Miley could do the same. Bruno Guimaraes, after all, is suspended for the trip to Bournemouth on Saturday, weakening the midfield options even further.
Clearly liked by Howe, Miley could be given a chance to kickstart his season.
Given all that’s going on around him in terms of injuries and suspensions, a big performance would be most welcome.
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