Mikel Arteta suggested that Myles Lewis-Skelly could claim the vacant left-back position after his impressive performance against Monaco on Wednesday night.

At just 18 years old, Lewis-Skelly became Arsenal’s youngest starter in the Champions League since Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in 2011 and excelled in his rare starting opportunity.

Given the injuries affecting the backline, especially at full-back, he could now have a consistent run in the team.

Arteta expressed his pride, stating, “It’s a really proud moment. He is one of our own. It’s a joy to watch him, and a privilege to give someone the chance to start changing their career.

“He certainly took that chance. It’s great that we can trust him to play in this environment and at this level. I was really pleased with his performance.”

When asked if Lewis-Skelly could secure the left-back role, Arteta confirmed, “He has a chance. He’s been in contention. In pre-season, he showed us he was ready, just like Ethan (Nwaneri).”

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

Arteta says Saka ‘keeps surprising us’ with how he keeps stepping up

‘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.’