Arsenal defender Lewis-Skelly ‘destined’ for World Cup place | OneFootball

Former Arsenal midfielder Ray Parlour believes Myles Lewis-Skelly can become England’s starting left-back for the 2026 World Cup.

The 18-year-old has recently been included in Thomas Tuchel’s squad for the upcoming international fixtures against Andorra and Senegal.

On his senior England debut against Albania back in March, the left-back announced himself at Wembley Stadium with his first goal for the Three Lions.

In an exclusive with The Football Faithful, in association with NetBet Sports Betting, Parlour claimed the teenager has all the ingredients for success.

“With a debut like he had, maybe he is destined for the top at international level,” the former England player declared.

“Myles has a great team around him, a very supporting family and he is well grounded and knows he needs to keep learning and listening to the coaches and working really hard.

“He has this position now, so hopefully he can keep it for the next World Cup.”

Naturally, Lewis-Skelly is far from the finished article. The Englishman has only made 39 senior appearances and, while gaining several plaudits for his industrious performances and fearless approach to matches, he hasn’t been faultless in his maiden campaign.

The teenager has been sent off twice in 2025, although his red card against Wolverhampton Wanderers was later rescinded. The full-back also received criticism for his display against Paris-Saint Germain in the Champions League semi-final.

At his tender age, every mistake can be used as lesson, which Parlour was quick to corroborate.

“He did have a tough game in the second leg of the Champions League semi-final, so he must learn from that,” Parlour said.

“He just has to mature well, keep his feet on the ground, listen to Mikel [Arteta] at team level and Tuchel at international level and keep working hard at his game.

“Consistency is key to reaching the next level, but he has made a very bright start,” Parlour added.

The defender is the latest success story off the Hale End production line. Bukayo Saka has famously flourished from an Arsenal academy prospect into one of England’s most important players in recent years, with the likes of Ethan Nwaneri and Lewis-Skelly hoping to follow suit.

Hale End is widely-regarded as one of the best academies in the country, with Parlour believing it to be the finest.

“You look at the recent talent in Saka, Nwaneri and Lewis-Skelly and with Max Dowman coming through a well, Arsenal are showing the investment in the academy is proving it’s worth.

“It’s so hard to bring through players and give them first-team exposure. The step up from academy and playing in the U18 and U21 leagues is the biggest step a player can make, but these three lads have made it look easy.

“And this is down to the coaches and team at the club, who ensure they adapt well.”

Read – Parlour names striker Arsenal should sign this summer

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