SMITH ROWE: COMEBACK COMPLETE

Monday night’s 3-0 victory in the FA Cup against Oxford United saw the Gunners ease into the fourth round, but perhaps the biggest reason for cheer was the welcome return of youngster Emile Smith Rowe.

 

The 22-year-old came on as a substitute in the 2nd half to make his first appearance for Arsenal since September, following recovery from a groin injury. With big games coming thick and fast for the league leaders, Mikel Arteta will know the importance of strength in depth, and although no new additions have been made to the squad yet, having Smith-Rowe return will almost act as a new signing.

 

Arsenal’s number 10 finished last season with 10 Premier League goals, and made a habit of scoring on big occasions, netting in wins against Chelsea and this weekend’s opponents Tottenham Hotspur.

 

Speaking after Tuesday night’s success, the Hale End graduate revealed that “It’s been difficult being out for this long – but at the same time, we are top of the league and playing really well, so I can’t complain!”.

 

With Arteta often opting to rotate Smith Rowe with Martin Odegaard last season, the Norwegian’s outstanding form means that he is pivotal to the Gunners starting eleven and unlikely to be dropped. However, Smith-Rowe is versatile across the front line, able to play out wide as well as in the number 10 role.

 

After successful surgery on an injury that has plagued his career for the best part of 4 years, Smith Rowe hopes that his days in the physio room are finally behind him.

 

"I am really happy that it is finally over. I had a successful surgery and I am feeling really good."

 

Understandably relieved to finally get back on the pitch, the English youngster paid tribute to his teammates for helping him through a challenging period. “The whole team was around me. The manager really helped me and obviously I had my family back home supporting”.

 

Smith Rowe's injury came at a particularly frustrating period, with his form towards the business end of last season bound to have caught the attention of England manager Gareth Southgate.

 

After missing out on the World Cup, the Croydon born attacker is keen to put himself back in contention for more call ups.

 

"I am still young, so I will keep working hard to get more opportunities for the national team."

 

Fans will surely remember the impact Smith Rowe had on the first North London derby of last season, scoring the opener and playing his part in the second goal as Arsenal saw off Tottenham 3-1 at the Emirates back in September 2021.

 

Looking ahead to this weekends clash, Smith Rowe is confident that the Gunners can complete a North London Derby double for the first time since 2014.

 

"I think it would be massive for us and it couldn't come at a better time. We are feeling really good at the moment".

 

With the fan's favourite back in squad contention, it won't be long until chants of "Saka and Emile Smith-Rowe" ring out inside the Emirates once again.