Jamal Lewis’ career will progress quicker with Newcastle United than it would have done at Liverpool - that’s the verdict of former Norwich City defender Danny Mills.

The Pink Un: Former Norwich defender Danny Mills believes Jamal Lewis is better off at Newcastle. Picture: ArchantFormer Norwich defender Danny Mills believes Jamal Lewis is better off at Newcastle. Picture: Archant

Lewis signed a five-year deal at St James’ Park on Tuesday for a fee understood to be £15m plus add-ons but things could have been very different had Liverpool followed up their interest after having an £8m rejected.

Liverpool, who were looking for back-up to first choice Andy Robertson, turned their attention to Greek left back Kostas Tsimikas and Lewis’ dream move was off the table.

However, the 22-year-old has now got his move to the Premier League with the Magpies and Mills believes it is a better switch for the youngster.

“Lewis is likely to play at Newcastle,” said Mills, who made 73 appearances for Norwich between 1995 and 1998. “He certainly was not going to play at Liverpool. As a young player you are better off going and playing, knowing that you are really wanted somewhere. You want to be vital to a side.”

Mills added to Football Insider: “I think it would be a really good move for Lewis. He may have wanted to go to the Premier League champions but there is no point if you are not going to play. It becomes a token gesture so going to Newcastle is a good move for all parties.”