Arsenal
Image credit: Getty Images
Roy Keane suggested that Myles Lewis-Skelly cleverly won the free-kick that led to England’s opening goal against Latvia, a skill he believes the youngster picked up at Arsenal.
The young Arsenal left-back has enjoyed a meteoric rise this season and marked his senior England debut with a goal in Friday’s victory over Albania. While he didn’t find the net against Latvia, he played a key role in James’ stunning opener, going down after a challenge from Vladislavs Gutkovskis to win the crucial set-piece.
Assessing the incident during ITV’s halftime analysis, Keane admitted it was a smart move from Lewis-Skelly but hinted at Arsenal’s influence in his ability to win such fouls.
READ MORE: Declan Rice says Arsenal are ‘blessed’ with three incredible talents
“It was touch and go,” Keane said. “I think they were clever in winning the free-kick. Latvia were slightly unlucky, but take nothing away from the finish.Lewis-Skelly… he’s obviously learned that well at Arsenal over the years. It’s 50-50.”
Former Arsenal striker Ian Wright, who was on punditry duty alongside Keane, defended the decision, saying: “You get free-kicks for those nowadays.”Keane responded with a smirk: “It was smart, it was clever.”
Arsenal star Myles Lewis-Skelly against Latvia
Myles Lewis-Skelly won the foul that led to Reece James’ free-kick goal against Latvia (Image credit: Getty Images)
Meanwhile, England head coach Thomas Tuchel has heaped praise on Lewis-Skelly, declaring that he has “fallen in love” with the Arsenal starlet following his impressive international debut.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE NOW.ARSENAL WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
The 18-year-old made an immediate impact in England’s World Cup qualifying campaign, scoring just 20 minutes into his first senior appearance. Latching onto a sublime Jude Bellingham pass, Lewis-Skelly finished calmly to become the youngest player to score on his England debut at 18 years and 176 days.
Tuchel was full of admiration for the teenager after the match. “He is an amazing player,” Tuchel told ITV. “An amazing personality. He came into camp and showed straight away that it’s normal to fall in love with him. It is well deserved.”
Tuchel also praised Bellingham, emphasiing his growing leadership role within the squad.
“No doubt he is a key player for us,” Tuchel said. “That was a fantastic pass for the first goal. I expect special things from Jude. He is ready to take on responsibility, and we have to create an environment and structure where we can see more of it.”
NEXT ARTICLE: Arsenal set-piece mastery shines as star player scores two headers in international victory