Former England striker Emile Heskey believes Arsenal youngsters Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly should not be rushed into the senior England squad despite their impressive performances this season.
Softfootball gathered that the teenage duo have enjoyed breakthrough campaigns under Mikel Arteta, with both players earning widespread praise for their maturity and consistency. Their displays have sparked calls for new England manager Thomas Tuchel to include them in his first squad.
However, Heskey insists it would be wiser to allow the youngsters to continue their development rather than expose them to international football too soon.
Speaking on the matter, the former Liverpool and England forward urged patience before handing the Arsenal academy graduates senior recognition.
I don’t think now is the right time. They’re talented players with bright futures, but there’s no need to rush them into the England squad. Let them keep developing and enjoying their football.
Heskey acknowledged the pair have shown remarkable quality for their age but stressed that regular club football should remain their priority. He believes continued progress at Arsenal will naturally put them in contention for England selection when the time is right.
With Tuchel preparing to name his first squad, Nwaneri and Lewis-Skelly remain among England’s brightest young prospects despite Heskey’s call for patience.
