Malick Thiaw has surprised everyone with how good he has been at Newcastle United.
Newcastle United are impressed with Malick Thiaw, who has adapted to Premier League football with ease. He looks like a bargain at £34million, continuing his bright start on Tyneside with an outstanding display in Newcastle’s win over Crystal Palace.
The 24-year-old scored his first goal at St James’ Park and helped the Magpies pick up their first clean sheet since November, but he was not the best player on the pitch.
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Instead, Lewis Miley was Newcastle’s best player. The 19-year-old put in another accomplished performance at right-back, completing 100% of the 59 passes he attempted.
The academy product has been exceptional in his new role, much to the surprise of his Toon teammate Thiaw.
Malick Thiaw ‘blown away’ by Lewis Miley
On the back of Newcastle United’s 2-0 win over Crystal Palace, Thiaw spoke to the Athletic.
He was asked about Miley’s recent form, with the German defender admitting he was ‘blown away’ by the youngster as soon as he arrived last summer.
“My first week, I was blown away by his [Miley] quality as a midfield player,” he said.
“But then he even surprised me as well, how he can play as a right-back. The composure he has, the one-against-one defending, how good he is. He is quick, really comfortable on the ball. Newcastle should be really happy to have him.
“Football is not about age, it’s about performance. He’s one of the guys who leads with his performances.”
Lewis Miley leading by example at Newcastle United
This season represented a challenge for Miley.
During the summer, Miley wanted to leave on loan. There was a desire to go out and play regularly, but Eddie Howe opted to keep him on Tyneside.
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That has proven to be the right decision, with Miley’s influence growing with each performance.
Earlier in the season, there was a feeling that the midfielder needed to take more responsibility. He had the ability, but appeared to lack the belief.
Now his confidence is shining through, no longer playing like a youngster who is still finding his feet. He is letting his football do the talking, rather than his age.
As Thiaw has alluded to, the rest of the Newcastle United squad should be looking at Miley for inspiration. He really is leading by example with his level of consistency, and he is making himself undroppable for Howe.
That represents a problem for the Newcastle United manager, but it is one he will relish.
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