Lewis Miley nodded in agreement.
It was the morning of Newcastle United’s Carabao Cup quarter-final against Fulham.
Head coach Eddie Howe had informed the 19-year-old midfielder that he would be making his debut as a right-back due to a string of injuries affecting the backline, including Kieran Trippier, Lewis Hall, Dan Burn, Emil Krafth, and now Tino Livramento.
As Howe explained, Miley would have just one training session to learn “how to be a right-back.”
Not only did he adapt brilliantly to this unfamiliar position, but he also delivered when it mattered most, scoring in the 92nd minute with a powerful header.
“I’m hesitant to put too much pressure on him, but he has the potential to be among the best in any position he plays,” Howe remarked. “I thought he was exceptional at right-back and has significantly developed in central midfield regarding stature, confidence, and a sense of belonging—all vital qualities. His goals will only enhance that.”
“He possesses a little bit of everything, and I couldn’t rate him any higher.”
The match seemed destined for penalties after Fulham’s Sasa Lukic equalized, canceling out Yoane Wissa’s earlier goal.
However, Miley seized the moment, meeting Sandro Tonali’s corner at the near post, sending the Geordie supporters into a frenzy as Newcastle secured a semi-final spot against Manchester City.
“I’m on cloud nine,” the lifelong Newcastle fan told Sky Sports. “This feeling is unreal. Growing up here, it couldn’t be better, and I hope we make it to the final.”
Wissa Provides Spark as Newcastle Prevails
The atmosphere was a stark contrast to just a few days prior at the Stadium of Light.
Newcastle’s players and staff understood they wouldn’t truly be able to atone for that painful derby loss to Sunderland until they faced them again in March.
Exiting the Cup as holders on home turf would have been unacceptable following such a dispiriting defeat.
“The training ground has been quite somber,” Howe reflected. “We fully realize the impact of our last game on the people of Newcastle. We’ve had to come to terms with that. I won’t sugarcoat it.”
In light of this, Howe made six changes to refresh his squad for Fulham’s visit, giving Wissa his first start since completing his lengthy £55m transfer from Brentford, having returned from a knee injury.
You could tell Wissa was eager to make an impact, beaming as he took to the pitch, and it took him just 10 minutes to get on the scoresheet.
Fabian Schar delivered a long cross-field ball to Jacob Murphy, who sent a first-time pass across the box, knowing Wissa would be there waiting.
Though Fulham’s goalkeeper, Benjamin Lecomte, managed to touch the ball, it fell perfectly for Wissa, who couldn’t miss.
This showcased the poacher’s instincts Wissa will bring to Newcastle.
However, Wissa didn’t appear to be satisfied, notably expressing frustration with his teammates when they didn’t quickly find him after Lukic’s equalizer.
He earned a standing ovation when substituted, following a memorable tackle on Emile Smith Rowe.
Though Wissa is still working towards full fitness, he will ease the burden on Woltemade, who faced a tough outing against Sunderland, scoring an unfortunate own goal.
His speed and movement will undoubtedly provide Newcastle with a different dynamic.
“I knew it was special to be here,” Wissa mentioned to Sky Sports. “Now, wearing the Newcastle shirt, it feels different. I’m really happy today.
“Winning a cup is unique. They did it last year when I wasn’t here, so I want to experience that victory.”
“I Can’t Thank Them Enough”
Howe is equally determined to return to Wembley.
This season has been an unusual mix of starts and stops for Newcastle, currently sitting 12th in the league, with only two away victories across all competitions.
They’ve also faced frustrating losses against Brentford, West Ham, and Marseille in recent weeks.
Yet, the defeat at Sunderland felt particularly disheartening.
In Newcastle’s 157 league matches under Howe, they ranked near the bottom in tackles, possession won in the final third, expected goals, ground duels won, and shots during their time at the Stadium of Light.
That was reflective of their disappointing performance.
However, upon returning to St James’, Howe and his players were met with support rather than hostility.
A large banner for Howe hung in the Gallowgate End alongside one for captain Bruno Guimaraes, and fans continuously chanted “Eddie Howe’s black and white army” throughout the match.
Challenging days lie ahead, but this outpouring of support has not gone unnoticed.
“I can’t thank them enough,” Howe expressed.