As the eager Liverpool players took to the Anfield pitch, greeted by a Guard of Honour from Arsenal, speculation arose regarding Myles Lewis-Skelly’s involvement in the applause – however, new footage has surfaced to dispel any doubts.
Under the leadership of Arne Slot in his inaugural season, the Reds became the first Dutch manager to secure the Premier League title with four matches remaining, prompting several teams to prepare a Guard of Honour for them.
Previously, Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea were the first to offer Liverpool a sign of respect before Arsenal – who are set for a third successive season of being crowned the Premier League’s runners-up – were given the same duties and much was made of Lewis-Skelly’s actions.
A week before, the Anfield faithful fumed at Chelsea winger Noni Madueke for not taking part by standing and not clapping the title-winning Merseysiders – and the same happened ahead of Liverpool’s 2-2 draw with Arsenal after Lewis-Skelly appeared not to respond.
It was believed that, while the rest of the Arsenal squad showed their respect ahead of the two sides locking horns on Sunday, Lewis-Skelly completely ignored his duties and, instead, was spotted clasping his hands as his opponents emerged onto the field of play.