Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has told Football.London that Emile Smith Rowe will be in the squad for the Premier League match against Aston Villa at Villa Park on Saturday afternoon.
Smith Rowe has had injury problems so far this season and has been able to make only five substitute appearances in the Premier League for Arsenal.
The 22-year-old attacking midfielder has missed the last four matches due to injury.
However, the England international, who can also operate as a winger, trained this week.
And, according to Arteta on Friday, Smith Rowe – described by the Arsenal boss as “an incredible player” in The Athletic last month – trained yesterday and will be in the squad to face Villa.
Football.London have reported this morning that Arteta has included the 22-year-old in his squad.
Mikel Arteta on Emile Smith Rowe for Arsenal v Aston Villa
Arteta said: “Emile is training today, if he’s fine he’ll be in the squad.”
Encouraging for the Gunners
In our view, Emile Smith Rowe being back from injury is very good and encouraging news for Arsenal.
Now, of course, we do not expect the 22-year-old to start against Aston Villa.
However, the English youngster would be a good option to have for Arteta on the bench.
Gabriel Martinelli is not having the best of times at the moment, so having Smith Rowe to call upon in the second half would be great for Arteta.
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