Mikel Arteta has named a strong starting XI as Arsenal host Atletico Madrid in their Champions League semi-final second leg, opting to start Myles Lewis-Skelly in midfield despite Thierry Henry's plea for caution.
Arteta's Bold Selection
The Arsenal manager has answered Henry's call to give the 19-year-old academy graduate a chance in his natural position, following his impressive performance in the 3-0 win over Fulham. Lewis-Skelly, who came through the youth set-up as a central midfielder, has been utilised as a left-back by Arteta in the past, but his game time has been limited this season.
Arteta dropped Martin Zubimendi to the bench to save his legs for the clash with Atletico, sticking with the youngster after his brilliant display at the weekend. This decision is sure to please Henry, who waxed lyrical about Lewis-Skelly's display against Fulham.
Henry's Praise
Speaking on Sky Sports, Henry said: "Myles was just different. I didn't see Zubimendi do that often – the legs, anticipation, stopping someone, boom, making someone feel that you are there; he was there all the time."
Henry acknowledged the magnitude of the game but admitted he would like to see Lewis-Skelly start: "Because of the magnitude of the game, he's going to think to be a bit more secure. But Lewis-Skelly showed that that might be a new position for him in terms of next season. He did extremely well. I wouldn't mind if he starts him but then I can understand because of the magnitude of the game and how Zubimendi plays, sometimes you need to be a tiny bit more secure. We will see. But in this game, he was brave."
Henry added: "It's one thing to be patient. It's one thing to maybe be upset about the situation. But he was ready. He didn't look like he didn't play for a very long time. He controlled the game. He went forward. He buzzed the game at times. That's outstanding. Do not underestimate experience in this type of game. But would I like to see him on Tuesday or tomorrow, obviously? Yes. Why not?"
Match Context
Arsenal are level with Atletico ahead of kick-off after Viktor Gyokeres' penalty was cancelled out by Julian Alvarez in Madrid. The first leg was not without controversy, with the Gunners denied a late penalty when Eberechi Eze's shout was overturned by VAR.
Arsenal starting XI: Raya; White, Gabriel, Saliba, Calafiori; Rice, Lewis-Skelly, Eze; Saka, Gyokeres, Trossard.
