Thierry Henry has suggested that Myles Lewis-Skelly’s future is in midfield following his performance against Fulham. This has sparked debate about whether he should start ahead of Martin Zubimendi in the Champions League semi-final second leg against Atletico Madrid.
Henry’s Praise for Lewis-Skelly
Henry highlighted Lewis-Skelly’s “outstanding” display against Fulham. Making his first senior start in his natural midfield position, the 19-year-old played a key role in Arsenal’s 3-0 victory. It was only his third Premier League start of the season.
Henry said on Monday Night Football that while Declan Rice was outstanding, “Myles was just different.” Henry added, “Not only was he good on the ball, he was good on reading the play, stopping, going to get it. He played really well.”
Henry noted, “He didn’t look like he hadn’t played for a long time.”
He also said, “He controlled the game, he went forward. He bossed the game at times. That’s outstanding.”
Zubimendi’s Recent Form
Lewis-Skelly’s performance has led to suggestions that he should keep his place over Martin Zubimendi. Zubimendi’s form has been inconsistent in the second half of the season. He has played more minutes than any other outfield Arsenal player.
Arteta’s Dilemma: Experience vs. Form
Henry is intrigued to see what Mikel Arteta will do. “Because of the magnitude of the game, I don’t know if he’s going to go a bit more secure, but this guy showed that it might be a new position for him, in terms on next season.”
Henry stated, “He did extremely well. I wouldn’t mind if he starts him, but then I understand, because of the magnitude of the game, and how Zubimendi plays sometimes, a little bit more secure.”
Henry added, “Don’t underestimate experience in these kinds of games. But would I like to see him on Tuesday? Yes, why not? But Mikel Arteta is the coach.”
Rice’s Role in Midfield
Jamie Carragher was impressed with Declan Rice’s performance against Fulham. Carragher feels the 27-year-old should remain in the No 6 position for the rest of the season.
Rice has been playing at the base of Arsenal’s midfield in their last two games. He also had a dominant display in Madrid.
The decision of whether to start Lewis-Skelly over Zubimendi rests with Mikel Arteta.