Myles Lewis-Skelly is becoming one of Arsenal's biggest discoveries at the end of the season. From a player who only started twice in the Premier League throughout the season, the 19-year-old midfielder has gradually gained the trust of coach Mikel Arteta when being tested in the central midfield position.
The turning point came in the 3-0 victory over Fulham in early May. Lewis-Skelly was pulled in to play alongside Declan Rice and quickly left his mark with ball control, tackling and supporting the deployment of his playing style.
That impressive form continued to be maintained in important matches at the end of the season, especially in the Champions League semi-finals against Atletico Madrid, where Arsenal qualified for the final for the first time since 2006.
Before the final against Paris Saint-Germain next weekend, Lewis-Skelly is directly competing with Martin Zubimendi for a starting position. Although the final decision belongs to Arteta, former Arsenal defender Lee Dixon believes that the young English player deserves to be given a chance.
He shared: "I can't say I was surprised because I thought I knew he could do it. I thought it was an opportunity that came from Mikel needing something and he responded perfectly.
Myles played excellently. Ball control ability, sensitivity to his teammates around him, he is the best player of the match and possibly in both matches," Dixon commented.
According to the former England international, Lewis-Skelly's bravery is an important factor that makes him willing to place his trust in the teenage player in the biggest match of the season.
Choosing who to start in the Champions League final is a difficult decision. But I would probably choose Myles. I think he has shown enough bravery not to be overwhelmed by that pressure," Dixon emphasized.
Not only that, Dixon also compared Lewis-Skelly to English football legend Paul Gascoigne thanks to his ability to utilize physique and strength when holding the ball.
I have followed Myles a lot. He is very much like Gazza in how he uses his body and strength. That is a great skill that helps him create an advantage on the field," Dixon assessed.
