Arsenal’s impressive start to the season has seen the whole squad pull together in one direction, but it’s not been easy for everyone.
With a larger squad in place after a busy summer transfer window, Mikel Arteta hasn’t always been able to share the minutes around.
Not least at left-back, with Riccardo Calafiori’s impressive performances keeping Myles Lewis-Skelly out of the team.
It was the opposite at Arsenal last season, but now the Hale End academy graduate has a tough task on his hands to turn things around in the months ahead.
Myles Lewis-Skelly has everything to prove at Arsenal over the international break
Lewis-Skelly’s rise to the Arsenal senior team last season was nothing short of impressive, as he helped the side deal with plenty of injury issues.
His performances were top-tier, too, such as his fantastic individual display in the win over Real Madrid at the Bernabeu.
However, with Riccardo Calafiori’s return to fitness, it has been a challenge for Lewis-Skelly to stamp his authority on the team.
It’s made even tougher with the competition from Piero Hincapie, who joined on loan from Bayer Leverkusen and is capable of playing at left-back.
This situation is one that Lewis-Skelly hasn’t yet faced for Arsenal, but it’s one where he has to force his way back into Mikel Arteta’s plans.
A busy festive football period is coming up and marks the perfect chance to get back in the team once again.
It’s all part of the 19-year-old’s progression, but there is an extra incentive to perform well this season, with a World Cup place up for grabs.
Nico O’Reilly performances add pressure to Myles Lewis-Skelly in race for England spot
The left-back position in the England squad has been up for grabs for some time now, with Luke Shaw’s persistent injury issues leaving the place unclaimed.
So many stars have come and gone, but there is no clear idea as to who Thomas Tuchel will take to the World Cup for the role.
The England boss warned Lewis-Skelly that a lack of game time could compromise his claim to the shirt, and it has for the November international break.
Nico O’Reilly has taken that position, with his impressive performances putting him ahead in the pecking order.
That was clearly on display when Manchester City beat Liverpool, as the defender shackled down Mohamed Salah throughout the match.
It only adds further pressure on Lewis-Skelly to get back in the team and to perform well regularly.
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