Arsenal taught ‘big lesson’ by Brighton, says boss Mikel Arteta
Arsenal Football Newsletter
Arsenal Edition
Your weekly briefing on Arsenal, featuring team news and expert analysis from Matt Verri
I would like to be emailed about offers, event and updates from Evening Standard. Read our privacy notice.
Myles Lewis-Skelly has revealed Tottenham midfielder Matheus Fernandes is the toughest opponent he has come up against in the Premier League.
The 19-year-old has made a strong start to the season, forcing his way into Mikel Arteta’s plans after earning his trust in midfield at the end of last term.
Lewis-Skelly started all of Arsenal’s pre-season matches and then the first four league games, all of which the Gunners won.
He was dropped to the bench for the trip to Brighton and Arsenal were beaten 3-0, leaving Arteta with a big selection dilemma after the international break.
Lewis-Skelly broke into the team in midfield in the final weeks of last season and played the full 90 minutes in the dramatic win over West Ham.
Arsenal won 1-0 to remain in control of the title race, but only after a late VAR decision ruled out what West Ham thought was a last-gasp equaliser.
Mateus Fernandes and Myles Lewis-Skelly
In that match, Lewis-Skelly came up against Fernandes, who over the summer joined Tottenham for £85million, and the Portuguese midfielder made an impression.
Speaking to Men in Blazers, Lewis-Skelly was asked who the toughest opponent he has come up against in the league is.
“Matheus Fernandes, when he was at West Ham,” Lewis-Skelly responded.
Lewis-Skelly looks set to compete with Guimaraes for a place alongside Declan Rice in midfield this season.
Despite the challenge of that battle, Lewis-Skelly was excited to see Arsenal sign Guimaraes, believing the 28-year-old will help him become a better player.
“Bruno brings energy, experience, intensity,” he said.
“When I heard he was joining I was super happy because it’s someone to learn from and pick the brain of.
Read More
Transfer news LIVE: Arsenal get Alvarez green light; Chelsea plot Scott deal
Man Utd react to Arsenal academy raid by signing Man City wonderkid
Arsenal learn Timber injury update after Netherlands decision
Rediscover your adventurous side on an exotic getaway
“He’s another winner, he’s someone who plays in a similar position to you, so you can always learn from him. Being a sponge to Bruno is going to be really impactful.”