Mikel Arteta gives an assessment on struggling Emile Smith Rowe

Emile Smith Rowe has spent an extended spell on the sidelines.

The Hale End Academy product managed to play only 22 games over the last two seasons as he struggled with several injuries during that period.

He has been struggling to earn a regular spot in the Arsenal squad since his imminent return from his long-term injury earlier this campaign.

Smith Rowe returned to training after six weeks and missed around nine games in which he could have played.

But manager Mikel Arteta believes that numerous injuries and recoveries have made him a better and a stronger player.

‘What he has been through is part of the experience that 95 per cent of footballers have to go through,’ said Arteta.

‘That’s difficulties, injuries, setbacks and different kind of performances too. He’s back now, and he can use that in a very powerful way, he will be a much better player. I think he’s on the right path, the way he’s done his rehab, I haven’t seen it like he’s done it this time.

‘The more we can give him chances to play, the better we will be. So let’s hope that’s going to be the case.’

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