England head coach Thomas Tuchel has praised Arsenal midfielder Myles Lewis-Skelly for his performance during the Nations League match against Spain at Wembley. The 20-year-old featured in the starting lineup on his birthday, but it was a painful 3-2 defeat for the hosts.
Lewis-Skelly made his return to the national team after missing out on the 2026 World Cup, and Tuchel highlighted that the young talent earned his place in the side through hard work, not as a birthday treat.
That’s why he has made an impression in club football and during training this week. That’s why he started. There are no gifts for anyone here, not even on their birthday.
Traditionally, Lewis-Skelly has played as a left-back for Arsenal, but he is increasingly being used in central midfield under Mikel Arteta. Tuchel believes this new role allows the young player to showcase his skills more effectively.
He has performed well for Arsenal in that position. I believe it suits him a bit more than the left-back role. He was simply very good and had an excellent match today, so fair play to him. He did everything that was needed. A great performance.
The versatility of the Arsenal academy graduate remains a key part of his profile. Up next for Thomas Tuchel’s team are matches against the Czech Republic and Croatia.
