Lewis Miley earns special praise from Eddie Howe after Burnley display

Lewis Miley earned a “special mention” from Eddie Howe after another composed and mature display for Newcastle United, with the teenager continuing to excel in an unfamiliar role during the 3-1 win over Burnley.

After a difficult few days following the Boxing Day defeat to Manchester United, Newcastle United responded with only their second away victory of the Premier League season, overcoming Burnley at Turf Moor.

Early goals from Yoane Wissa and Joelinton put Newcastle in control before Josh Laurent pulled one back for the hosts. As Burnley pushed for an equaliser, Bruno Guimarães sealed the points with a sublime late lob.

While it was a hard-fought team performance rather than a night full of individual highlights, Eddie Howe was keen to highlight one player in particular.

Miley has been deployed out of position at right-back following injury problems that have sidelined Tino Livramento, Kieran Trippier and Emil Krafth.

Speaking to BBC Radio Newcastle, Howe said: “Lewy Miley, I have to say a special mention to him. He’s playing full-back now and you sort of take for granted his performance levels, but I think he’s been outstanding for us.”

With the defensive injury list still lengthy, the 19-year-old is now widely expected to continue in the role when Crystal Palace visit St James’ Park on Sunday.

Miley’s performance against Burnley was backed up by the data. According to FotMob statistics, the academy graduate was dribbled past just once across the 90 minutes. He also won two tackles, made five clearances, recorded two interceptions and did not concede a single foul.

Those numbers underline just how comfortable he looked in a position that is far from natural for him, particularly given his limited senior experience at full-back.

At some stage, Miley is expected to return to his preferred midfield role, where his intelligence and composure have already marked him out as a key part of Newcastle’s future. For now, though, there is little urgency to rush Livramento back into action while the teenager continues to perform so reliably.

Beyond his tactical value, Miley’s rapid rise is also inspiring the next generation coming through Newcastle’s academy. He already looks like one of the first names on Howe’s team sheet — regardless of position.

Miley’s adaptability and consistency are becoming increasingly valuable for Newcastle during a testing period of the season. If this trajectory continues, his role in the squad may only grow, long after the injury crisis eases.

Should Eddie Howe keep Lewis Miley at right-back even when the senior options return?