Skelly’s crucial block was the ‘turning point’ for Arsenal in Saturday’s 2-0 win at Leicester City. It looked like the Gunners were heading for a draw against Van Nistelrooy’s team, before Mikel Merino scored two late goals to secure all three points.

Wilfred Ndidi's return from injury has been a boost for the team and Van Nistelrooy explained: "It starts with his personality, which is excellent. Then it is his leadership and his playing capabilities. He has an enormous reach on the pitch, on and off the ball. The complete package of him as a character and a player has lifted the team."