Mikel Arteta heaps praise on Myles Lewis-Skelly after 18-year-old starred on first Champions League start – and suggests he could become a regular in unfamiliar position

Mikel Arteta hinted that Myles Lewis-Skelly has a chance of making the vacant left-back spot his own after an inspired performance against Monaco on Wednesday night.

The 18-year-old, who became Arsenal’s youngest starter in the Champions League since Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in 2011, played well on his rare start.

With injuries across the backline, particularly at full back, Lewis-Skelly could now have a run in the team.

Arteta said: ‘It’s a really proud moment. He is one of our own. It’s just a joy to watch him, and a privilege to give the chance to somebody to start to change his career.

‘He certainly took the chance. It’s great that we can trust them, that he can play in this environment and at this level. I was really happy with his performance.’

When asked if Lewis-Skelly has a chance of seizing the left-back spot, he replied: ‘He’s got (one). And he’s been in contention. In pre-season he opened our eyes to say “I’m ready”. The same with Ethan (Nwaneri). 

Mikel Arteta (left) hinted that Myles Lewis-Skelly (right) has a chance of making the vacant left-back spot his own

The 18-year-old, who became Arsenal’s youngest starter in the Champions League since Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in 2011, played well on his rare start

Lewis-Skelly was congratulated by his team-mates after assisting Bukayo Saka’s (left) first goal

‘They feel comfortable in this environment and they can compete, not just play, which is very important at this level. Today he’s shown that he’s at the level.’

Bukayo Saka also starred, scoring twice and providing an assist to down the French visitors. Saka now has nine goals and 12 assists in 21 matches across all competitions this season.

‘What he’s done at his age you can put it in brackets (of world class players) because you can compare what he’s done in his first six years of professional football which is exceptional,’ said Arteta.

‘That’s it. His aim is to improve. He has the players and the environment around to continue to do that and I’m sure he will.’