Newcastle United star facing six months out after ‘freak’ injury – set for surgery
Newcastle United has encountered a significant setback with an unexpected injury to their promising midfielder, Lewis Miley. The 18-year-old is set to be sidelined for 12 weeks, adding to the club’s injury woes even before the new season kicks off.
Miley, who had already missed the final two months of the last season due to a back injury sustained while on duty with England’s under-20 team, was preparing diligently for the upcoming season.
Unfortunately, during a routine running drill at Newcastle’s Benton training base, Miley suffered a freak injury, breaking a bone in his foot. This unexpected turn of events has necessitated surgery, which will be conducted in London on Monday.
Newcastle United anticipates that Miley will be out of action until late September or early October. This timeline means he will miss the first six Premier League games of the season.
These matches include crucial fixtures against Southampton, AFC Bournemouth, Tottenham Hotspur, Wolverhampton Wanderers, Fulham, and Manchester City. Miley’s potential return is tentatively set for October 5th, when Newcastle faces Everton.
Lewis Miley made a significant impact last season, breaking into the first-team squad amidst an injury crisis. The academy graduate played in 27 games across the Premier League, Champions League, Carabao Cup, and FA Cup.
Notably, he scored his first senior goal in a 3-0 victory against Fulham in December, becoming Newcastle’s youngest-ever Premier League goalscorer at 17 years and 229 days old.
In recognition of his impressive performances and potential, Miley was awarded a new long-term contract last season.
Newcastle’s head coach, Eddie Howe, praised Miley, stating, “Lewis is an exceptional young talent and has all the attributes to be a huge part of Newcastle United’s journey, both now and for many years to come.”
Howe also acknowledged the significant role of the club’s Academy in Miley’s development, highlighting him as an exemplary figure for younger players.
Miley’s absence will undoubtedly impact Newcastle’s midfield dynamics as they start the new season.
The club will need to rely on their depth and perhaps seek short-term solutions to cover for Miley’s missing presence. This period will be a test of Eddie Howe’s managerial skills and the squad’s resilience.
While Lewis Miley’s injury is a blow to Newcastle United, the young midfielder’s resilience and potential remain undiminished. His journey so far has shown that he has the talent and determination to overcome challenges and make a significant impact on the team’s future.
The club and its supporters will be eagerly awaiting his return, optimistic about the contributions he will continue to make in the years ahead.
Newcastle United’s ability to navigate this early setback will be crucial in setting the tone for the rest of their season.
With strategic adjustments and the return of key players like Miley, the Magpies are well-positioned to tackle the challenges ahead and continue their upward trajectory in the Premier League.