Arsenal youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly endeared himself to the Emirates faithful with a memorable outing in the North London derby on Wednesday.
Mikel Arteta’s side came from behind to secure a crucial three points as goals from Dominic Solanke [OG] and Leandro Trossard earned them a much-needed win.
One of Arsenal’s standout performers was teenage full-back Myles Lewis-Skelly, who marked his first North London derby with an outstanding display throughout.
As well as being solid defensively, the 18-year-old looked comfortable going forward. He not only made two interceptions and two clearances, but completed 94 per cent of his passes.
In his post-match interview with TNT Sports, teammate Declan Rice compared Lewis-Skelly’s ball carrying ability to former Spurs midfielder Mousa Dembele, who often breezed past players.
“He’s got that Mousa Dembele trait, to use his body to get away from things,” said Rice.
Lewis-Skelly also gave the crowd something to shout about on numerous occasions. He ‘shushed’ the travelling Tottenham fans after Arsenal took the lead, which brought plenty of reaction on social media.
And after being booked for trying to waste time before being replaced by Oleksandr Zinchenko, he riled up the home crowd as he left the pitch.
Here’s how fans on social media reacted to Lewis-Skelly’s performance against Spurs.
One said: “Myles Lewis-Skelly outstanding again at left-back, inverting into midfield when needed, reading the game superbly and intercepting well. Very composed. Totally unfazed by hype and tension around the #NLD. Only 18.”
A second wrote: “Myles Lewis-Skelly man of the match and it’s not close. Unbelievable performance in that atmosphere and he loved every second of it.”
A third commented: “Lewis Skelly adapted to men’s football immediately and is consistent enough to flatout cement a starting spot at 18 don’t think our fans realise how insane that is. Biggest positive from the season for me.”
A fourth said: “Lewis-Skelly rattling Spurs fans whilst putting in a 10/10 performance. Unbelievable night,” and a fifth added: “The way players just bounce off Lewis-Skelly will never get old to watch, absolute unit.”
Earlier this month, it was suggested that Arsenal were in talks with Lewis-Skelly regarding a new contract following his breakout campaign. He only signed his first professional contract in October last year.
Thoughts on Lewis-Skelly’s performance? Let us know in the comments.
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