Emile Smith-Rowe has had a difficult 2022-23 league season. Due to injuries, the Gunner has been restricted to only seven Premier League outings this season. It is reasonable to assume that in these 7 appearances, though with one assist, he hasn’t been as magical as he was in the previous season, when he managed 10 goals and 2 assists in 33 games.
Smith-Rowe had a breakout season at Arsenal in 2021-22, and many expected him to improve heading into this season, but we now know why he hasn’t. After Leandro Trossard limped off injured in the 22nd minute of Saturday’s encounter, Arteta was forced to rely on Smith-Rowe.
The Hale End graduate capitalized on his opportunity, assisting Thomas Partey’s goal, which marked the start of Arsenal’s title-clinching comeback. Ray Parlour, an Arsenal icon, is a huge supporter of the 22-year-old and thinks that despite his difficulties, the midfielder, who’s also a winger when called upon, is one of the top stars in Arteta’s team and is destined for greatness.
He told The Daily Star: “Saka has obviously been absolutely brilliant, so he would be up there.” Jack Wilshere would certainly be one of them. I’m pleased he’s still involved in the club.
“I know he’s had his injuries, but I think potentially Smith Rowe is one of the best Hale End graduates,” Parlour explained. “He will be a top player.”
Smith Rowe has a good chance of playing himself into relevancy. Yes, there are only 12 league games left, but with the Europa League returning this week and Arteta accepting the advantages of rotating his squad, a departure from his ‘if it’s working, why alter it’ mantra, Smith Rowe may finally get his opportunity.
He might just remind us why we fell in love with him and why he’s Arsenal’s number 10.
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I don’t know what Pourlar is on, but ESR is no where near, nor will he ever be the academy’s best product.
If wishes were horses, we would all be riders. He needs to go on loan like other players. His crop of players are miles ahead of him.
No doubt, Rowe is a huge talent. He will be an asset to the team next season. He should be given limited game time to fully get back to his level.
I hope the injury to Trossard is not serious.
As much as I love ESR,the level we have been playing this season has gone up a notch or 2.he definitely has a role to play. let’s not forget,he is still young,on a long term contract,no pressure to play every game. he’ll be properly managed,given time to overcome injuries, physically grow and improve his game.he will definitely come good,I see him as a long/medium investment.
I really hope. ESR is over his injuries as when he is match fit he is a joy to watch.His quick passing and running off the ball makes him so difficult to mark and he can also finish.Personally I feel he is on a par with Saka, who I may add needs a break.He also needs to be given more freedom to vacate the right flank and interchange with others in the front three.People tend to forget that Saka is a natural left winger, yet he is rarely moved from the right probably on the instructions of our Manager.In any event, two terrific young players.
Smith Rowe should not be rush back no need to,
He should be gently introduced back into the fold in a timely manner, while tweaking him to play in Jude Bellingham mould.
The gaffer should turn Smith Rowe into his pet project as the kid is already a cleaner striker of the ball than the other Englishman, that great ball carrying skill that Bellingham possess Smith Rowe is already halfway there.
I agree with @Gunsmoke about gently reintroducing him back.not being so much in the spotlight could be a good thing.the truth is that last season with injuries to players, ESR had to be thrown into it and couldn’t be managed/rested..since we depended a lot on him.
He score many goals last campaign. He will gradually work his was back. he’s a sensitive goal getter.