Lewis Miley is determined to keep his feet on the ground and take his career 'step by step' after scoring his first St James' Park goal. The Newcastle United wonderkid netted the first equaliser in the Magpies' narrow FA Youth Cup defeat to Arsenal on Tuesday night.
Jack Wilshere's side took an early lead in the fourth-round tie through Seb Ferdinand, but this was quickly cancelled out by Miley who showed great skill to evade Reuell Walters and calmly finish beyond Noah Cooper. Newcastle captain Ben Parkinson pulled the hosts level again after the break, but Gunners substitute Osman Kamara struck late to snatch a 3-2 victory.
It is not the first time Miley has played at St James' Park, having made a senior debut from the bench in the mid-season friendly victory over Rayo Vallecano. The 16-year-old has enjoyed a stunning season to date, and joined Eddie Howe's squad for their warm-weather training camp in Saudi Arabia.
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Miley was representing the Magpies under-18s in the FA Youth Cup, but has recently become a regular starter for the under-21s and has netted three goals in his last four appearances. However, the promising teenager is refusing to get carried away with his progress this term.
He told ChronicleLive: "I'm just focusing game by game really, taking it step by step to keep pushing myself. It was a great experience playing in front of fans.
"It was a disappointing result but we took lots of things from it. Scoring a goal as well was a great experience. It was a great feeling hearing the cheer of the fans, and it's one I will always remember."
Miley has only just returned from his latest international call-up, having represented England at under-17 level in two friendlies against Germany. Two matches in four days followed by a hard-fought FA Youth Cup tie proved a challenge for the academy prospect, but one he is confident will only aid his development.
Miley said: "It's always a great feeling to pull that shirt on for your country. You take lots of things from it.
"I thought I played well [against Arsenal]. I started to struggle towards the end with my legs, obviously playing two games with England was hard work but I kept going."
Miley has proven himself to be a versatile attacking midfielder in recent appearances, after lining up in the number 10 role against the Gunners. The teenager has also enjoyed success on the left flank at under-21 level.
Miley himself has no preference over a favoured position, and admits it is 'very special' to play alongside his older brother Jamie for Newcastle's second-string. He added: "I like playing multiple positions. It's always good to get to know different roles.
"It's very special to play alongside my brother. We've always played alongside each other during our youth careers."
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