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Newcastle United Injury Update: Eddie Howe Shares Latest on Lewis Miley’s Fitness After Six-Week Absence
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has issued an update on the fitness of young midfielder Lewis Miley, who has been sidelined for six weeks.
Miley will not feature in Newcastle’s upcoming Premier League clash against Chelsea F.C. and remains doubtful for the club’s Champions League trip to FC Barcelona. The 19-year-old is also uncertain for next weekend’s Tyne-Wear derby against Sunderland A.F.C. due to an ongoing thigh issue.
The midfielder initially picked up what appeared to be a dead leg during Newcastle’s 1-1 draw with Paris Saint‑Germain F.C. in the UEFA Champions League back in January.
However, he has not played since that match.
His recovery has taken longer than first expected. Miley has yet to rejoin full team training as he continues to wait for the muscle in his thigh to heal completely.
Lewis Miley injury update
Newcastle are taking a cautious approach with the teenager to avoid aggravating the injury, which could risk ruling him out for the rest of the season.
Around three weeks ago, Howe suggested Miley could return within “a couple of weeks at most.” That timeline has not materialised, and his exact return date remains uncertain, even though the youngster has been targeting the away fixture against Barcelona as a possible comeback.
Howe said the club had initially hoped Miley would be ready for that match, but the midfielder is still not training with the main squad.
“He’s back on the grass and running again, working extremely hard,” Howe explained. “But the medical team have stressed the importance of being careful with this injury so it doesn’t become something more serious.
“It’s lasted longer than anyone expected, but the priority is making sure he returns fully fit.”
Miley aiming for return before international break
Miley also spoke about his recovery while attending the North East Football Writers’ Association awards at Ramside Hall, where he was named Young Men’s Player of the Year.
The teenager revealed the injury involved muscle damage caused by a knock to his leg.
“It’s improving now,” he said. “I took a knock which caused some muscle damage. It’s been frustrating, but hopefully I’ll be back soon doing what I love.
“I’m hoping to return before the international break and maybe play a couple of games before that. The Barcelona away match would be a great one to come back for.”
He admitted the timing of the injury was disappointing as he had been performing well before the setback but stressed he remains focused on returning stronger.
Key role in Newcastle squad
Miley has been a valuable player for Newcastle this season, contributing key goals while also demonstrating his versatility. The youngster even filled in at right-back during injuries to Tino Livramento, Kieran Trippier and Emil Krafth before he picked up his own injury.
While it is still unclear whether Miley will travel with the squad to Barcelona next week, Newcastle captain Bruno Guimarães is expected to make the trip. The Brazilian midfielder is returning to England on Monday before travelling to Barcelona with the team in a non-playing role.
Guimarães is currently recovering from a hamstring injury and is expected to return to action after the international break.
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