David Ornstein has told the Athletic’s Youtube channel that Arsenal believe Emile Smith Rowe is a back-up player at this moment in time.
Smith Rowe has stepped out of the shadows recently, and his inclusion in Arsenal’s team has helped Mikel Arteta’s side show their best form of the season.
Arsenal have now won three games on the spin, and much of that owes to Smith Rowe’s link play.
The youngster has helped Arsenal look a far more dangers threat in the final third, and he dismantled West Bromwich Albion in his last outing with his passing range and clever positioning.
Smith Rowe, despite his impressive run of form, still isn’t seen a permanent starter at this stage of his career though.
And that is why Arsenal are so eager to sign a number 10 this month.
The Gunners have been linked with a host of names, with Arteta seemingly wanting a more experienced playmaker brought in for Smith Rowe to learn from.
“At this moment in time Arsenal see Smith Rowe ideally as being back up support, competition for a world class number 10,” Ornstein said.
“Filling in where necessary, learning off of them and eventually succeeding them.”
With Mesut Ozil looking increasingly likely to leave there is certainly room for a proven attacking midfielder in Arsenal’s squad.
But whoever does sign could face a fight for a place, as Smith Rowe has more than proved his worth in recent weeks.
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