Wayne Rooney singled out Myles Lewis-Skelly for praise after Arsenal ’s remarkable Champions League victory over Real Madrid.
Lewis-Skelly produced another impressive performance to help Arsenal run out 3-0 winners over Madrid at the Emirates Stadium .
The stunning win – inspired by two Declan Rice free-kicks and Mikel Merino’s goal – puts Arsenal ahead by three goals heading into the second leg of their quarter-final match against UEFA Champions League titleholders Real Madrid.
A lot of attention following the match centered around Rice, who rightfully earned the Player of the Match accolade. However, Rooney also showered compliments on his teammate, the English international Lewis-Skelly.
'I believe he played without any fear, right from the beginning,' the Manchester United legend and ex-England forward stated on Amazon Prime.
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‘We were talking during the game about the positions he takes up and whether it’s always the best positions, in some cases it’s probably not.
‘But he was causing Real Madrid problems. He was creating an overload in midfield coming into that position and for a young lad to play at this level – it can be intimidating and nerve-wracking – but he played with full confidence and full belief.
‘I’m really pleased for him because it’s been a big season for him, coming into the team, making his debut for England and then producing that performance against Real Madrid tonight. He’s passed a big test.’
As Rooney pointed out, Lewis-Skelly has enjoyed an incredible breakout season for Arsenal.
The player, who turned 18 last year, made his first-team bow with the club just this past September. However, he has quickly become an essential part of Mikel Arteta’s team and stands out as one of the top performers in the Premier League within his role.
Lewis-Skelly’s quick ascent got him called up for England during the previous international break, and he did so achieved a goal during his inaugural match under Thomas Tuchel’s initial governance .
Following Arsenal’s impressive win against the reigning European champions, Arteta expressed his joy and pride in his team, stating he was “extremely delighted” and “incredibly proud.”
'It was a lovely evening,' the Gunners manager stated. 'I'm so delighted, so proud of the squad.'
'We have the chance to make many people feel incredibly proud, and we've definitely accomplished that. I've never witnessed the stadium like this before.'
'Prior to the match, they were already singing and essentially playing the game. For significant European evenings, you require large stadiums that foster an ambiance and also those special individual magical moments; thus, there you have it.'
In anticipation of the second leg in Madrid, Arteta stated: "We need to head over there. We understand that we must elevate our performance once more, and we aim to secure the victory."
‘It’s another step in the right direction as a team. We have to make another one and replicate what we’ve done tonight.’
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