Bukayo Saka was the star of the show as Arsenal beat Monaco 3-0 in the Champions League at the Emirates on Wednesday night, scoring twice and heavily involved in the third goal which – due to a UEFA correction – was taken off Kai Havertz and goes down as a Thilo Kehrer own goal.
The 23 year old has become fundamental to the Gunners, but on a night when he brought his goal involvements to the season to 20 from 21 games, another Hale End graduate also caught the eye.
Myles Lewis-Skelly was handed his first Champions League start at left-back, and impressed with his ability on the ball in every area of the pitch – demonstrating why he was given the nod ahead of the more experienced Kieran Tierney who has struggled to play that role in the past.
Speaking to TNT Sports afterwards, Saka revealed what he said to his fledgling teammate after his role in the first half opener.
“I just said to him, like I said to him before the game, that this is his level,” he said.
“He needs to have no doubts about the confidence, what he’s doing in training. I was pleased with him, he was a big part of the first goal.
“His future is very bright. He just needs to keep the same head that he’s got. His mentality is top, he’s always asking questions, looking to learn, so I’m so proud of him.”
As for Lewis-Skelly, who joined the club aged 8, he said of his night, ” Yeah, I’m proud of myself, you know.
“I believe in myself, but I’ve come a long way, and I just want to thank everyone for giving me the opportunity.
“Hopefully, it’s the first of many, and I’ll push on from here.”
Based on what we saw tonight, you wouldn’t doubt him.
Him and Ethan, fantastic futures!
Love Saka, even though only a few years older, so mature and is there anyone more professional?
People used to complain about Arteta not giving young players enough chances but he’s very selective and those who he has trusted have been very deserving and successful
Lewis-Skelly’s pre-assist is a thing of beauty. Suckers the defender into thinking he could win it, then shrugs him off and plays a perfectly weighted through ball.
Talent!
Talent!? That was a full performance that would have earned praise even if it was from a 30-year-old veteran. Yes, a talent, but so much more. He muscled opponents off the ball, and never looked out of place. I know it’s early days, and it’s “just” Monaco to some people, but I’d feel comfortable seeing him in the starting line-up in any game this season. And yes! That pass, and the work leading up to it…
Next game Skelly and Tierney will both be unavailable due to injuries. Mark my words.
hopefully not, we can’t play Pascal anymore now when he’s 50 🤠
Heard he’s going all hairy in his old age
Jesus Christ, being so relentlessly negative must be absolutely knackering haha
It was a joke. Why do u automatically think everything is negative?
It was bold, the way Lewis created that pass. Really hoping he continues in the same vein. Wonderful option for us, another Hale End graduate…
In so doing (playing both Ethan and Skelly) MA answers some fundamental question, rightly. I am eagerly waiting for Ayden Heaven plus I do not want Kiwior sold. All big teams have a Kiwior.
The speed of Myles’ passes in the final third is good. Özil and Jorginho are the other two players who have it in their game. Myles plays with confidence and conviction.
Myles n Nwaneri integration to the first team is the best thing that happened to our team since Saka Rowe n Nelson.. Hale end hoorah!!!!
Huge positive from last night and hopefully inspires the other youngsters pushing to make the breakthrough. Was great to hear Arteta talking recently about his ambition to have the best Academy because that’s how you create a sustainable club 🙂
I’m proud of him too. The kid’s legit.
Also – phenomenal post-game interview. Shockingly charming