Last Saturday, Newcastle United’s opener against Fulham was set up nicely by Bruno Guimaraes and Lewis Miley.
When Lewis Miley scored his first goal for Newcastle United last Saturday, Bruno Guimaraes grinned like a delighted older brother. The Brazilian delivered the brilliance for the 17-year-old’s first senior goal.
Guimaraes, the fulcrum of Newcastle’s midfield, stood by as the Magpies toiled for nearly an hour to break down a 10-man Fulham side. Taking control, the 26-year-old moved past several players before setting up Miley for a cool finish.
Geordie ecstasy erupted as the Stanley native fulfilled the expectations of 50,000 supporters in front of their eyes. Gallowgate End, 1-0, first Newcastle goal at the age of 17… For anyone who believes in black and white, this is the stuff of fairytales.
“Sometimes I can’t believe he’s only 17,” Guimaraes remarked after the game, overjoyed for – and alongside – Newcastle’s newest wonder. “He is truly incredible!” We are quite proud of him. He’s doing very well.”
Guimaraes had praised Miley only a few weeks before, bluntly stating where his own game stood as a 17-year-old. “Lewis Miley is a star – he is massive,” he told reporters. I was s**t when I was 17, sorry for using the word.
“Lewis is an amazing performer and a fantastic talent.” He delivered a fantastic performance. He had an assist and performed quite effectively. I am overjoyed for him.”
How far can Miley go if the Toon talisman, a Brazil regular and Tyneside cult figure regarded by many as the club’s best player, was playing for South American minnows Audax in the Campeonato Paulista at the same age? While his pals study for their A-levels, the child goes toe-to-toe with European heavyweights like Paris Saint-Germain and AC Milan.
Guimaraes had a youthful vigor when he initially came. That irresistible charisma remains, but Toon fans are witnessing a youngster growing into a man as a result of his new job as Miley’s mentor.
The pair also compliment each other on the football, as evidenced by the move that broke the Fulham dam on Saturday. Guimaraes is the string puller in Eddie Howe’s midfield, although he has shown the capacity to play as an all-action midfielder since joining Newcastle.
Miley, meanwhile, exudes calm, looking successful whether Howe plays him deeper or further forward. That 6ft 2in body will become a force to be reckoned with as the baby-faced playmaker progresses through his career.
Fortunately for Newcastle fans, Guimaraes signed a lucrative contract extension in October, so this is unlikely to be a passing of the torch. As the Brazilian’s Padawan learner during the height of his career, Miley can deconstruct every ounce of knowledge and insight.
However, the partnership benefits both parties. Consider Guimaraes’ delight the next time Miley lets his brilliance to bully his age and inexperience.
