Gary Lineker pinpointed a surprising catalyst for Arsenal’s dominant 3-0 victory over Fulham: the unexpected inclusion of young Myles Lewis-Skelly in a central midfield role. The change, a bold move by Mikel Arteta, appeared to unlock a new dimension in Arsenal’s attack, propelling them six points clear at the league summit.
The decision to rest summer signing Martin Zubimendi, a typically cautious and defensively-minded player, proved pivotal. While Zubimendi excels at recycling possession, Lineker observed that his instinct is to play safe, often passing backwards. This contrasts sharply with Lewis-Skelly’s approach.
Lewis-Skelly, a 19-year-old previously known as a full-back, immediately injected a sense of urgency and forward momentum into Arsenal’s midfield. His first thought, Lineker explained, is always to turn and drive the team forward with quick, incisive passes.
This shift in dynamic wasn’t isolated to Lewis-Skelly’s individual play. Arteta cleverly adjusted the team’s tactics, pushing the wingers higher up the pitch. Suddenly, players like Saka were receiving the ball with space to attack, transforming Arsenal’s offensive threat.
The impact extended to Declan Rice, too. While a powerful runner with the ball, Rice doesn’t always prioritize quick forward passes. Lewis-Skelly’s proactive style complemented Rice’s strengths, creating a more balanced and dynamic midfield partnership.
Arteta himself admitted he may have underestimated Lewis-Skelly, acknowledging a possible delay in recognizing the teenager’s potential. He praised the player’s humility and dedication during a period where opportunities were limited, even hinting at a past reluctance to fully utilize his talent.
“I’ve been tough on him,” Arteta confessed, reflecting on Lewis-Skelly’s impressive performance. “I probably don’t have a clue and maybe I should have done it earlier.” The manager’s candid admission underscores the transformative effect of a single, courageous team selection.
Lewis-Skelly’s breakthrough performance has sparked debate about his future role within the squad. With a crucial Champions League tie against Atletico Madrid looming, the question now is whether Arteta will continue to trust the young academy graduate to deliver on the biggest stage.
