Roy Keane takes swipe at Arsenal after Myles Lewis-Skelly incident in England win
Roy Keane took a swipe at Arsenal after Myles Lewis-Skelly won the free-kick by using the ‘dark arts’ that led to Reece James’ goal in the win over Latvia
Roy Keane took a cheeky dig at Arsenal as he lauded Myles Lewis-Skelly for his shrewdness in winning the free-kick that led to Reece James’ goal for England.
Lewis-Skelly, who netted England’s first goal against Albania on Friday just 19 minutes into his senior debut, is making his mark on the international scene.
The Arsenal sensation has had an impressive breakthrough season and is now Thomas Tuchel‘s first-choice left back.
Although he didn’t score in the match against Latvia, he played a crucial role in setting up James’ spectacular goal, marking the Chelsea star’s first start for England in over two years.
After being challenged by Vladislavs Gutkovskis, Lewis-Skelly felt minimal contact and went to ground, winning the free-kick which James brilliantly scored.
During the half-time analysis on ITV, Keane acknowledged Lewis-Skelly’s smart play, hinting it was a ‘dark art’ picked up in North London.
“It was touch and go,” Keane said on ITV when questioned about whether he thought the free-kick was a foul. “I think they were clever winning the free-kick. They [Latvia] were slightly unlucky. Although take nothing away from the free-kick.
“Lewis-Skelly here…he’s obviously learned that well at Arsenal over the years. It’s 50-50.”
Ian Wright, the legendary Arsenal forward and Keane’s punditry counterpart, replied: “You get free-kicks for those nowadays.” Keane conceded: ” It was smart, it was clever.”
After the match, James shared his thoughts on his comeback and the goal he netted: “I’ve had a frustrating two and a half years. I’m so happy to get called up again and play. I saw the wall, thought I could bend it around, and thankfully it hit the back of the net.”
Reflecting on his lack of celebration, James confessed: “I was a bit surprised it actually hit the net!”.
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