Mikel Arteta has admitted that managing Myles Lewis-Skelly's expectations has been a learning process for both parties, as the Arsenal teenager endures a season with significantly reduced playing time.
Lewis-Skelly's reduced role
The 19-year-old enjoyed a breakthrough campaign last season, featuring regularly in the latter stages. However, this term he has started only three Premier League matches, with one of those coming in the recent victory over Fulham that propelled the Gunners to the top of the table. He was also handed a start in the Champions League semi-final second leg against Atletico Madrid, impressing in the win.
Arteta acknowledged that a reality check was inevitable for the young talent. He said: "I think it's been a process of, probably understanding him better, him understanding as well the standards that are required when you play or don't play that much at this level, to understand the reasons why you play or don't play as well, and then he's been exceptional."
Attitude and response
The Arsenal boss praised Lewis-Skelly's professionalism during difficult periods. "His attitude, the way he's been trained, the way he's been supporting the boys when he hasn't played, and he's given us every sign to think that when we were going to give him the chance he was going to respond in the manner that he's done it," Arteta added.
"But after he's done it, and it's not easy, especially when you haven't played that much, to look that confident, that energetic, that playing with that determination, it's something that is surprising."
England and transfer speculation
Lewis-Skelly had earned an England call-up and was tipped for a World Cup spot this summer, but his lack of minutes has seen him fall out of contention. England manager Thomas Tuchel publicly stated that the Arsenal player needed more game time to make the squad.
The teenager has spent much of the season behind Piero Hincapie and Riccardo Calafiori in the pecking order. His versatility allows him to play in midfield, but competition there is fierce. Rivals Manchester United have been linked with a move for the academy graduate.
Arsenal's squad depth has been praised, but fellow academy star Ethan Nwaneri had to go out on loan in January and may need to move elsewhere for regular minutes.
